Patrick Stewart Dies at 86 After Battle with Alzheimer's and Lewy Body Dementia
The acclaimed actor's family announced his passing, citing a brief but poignant journey with the neurodegenerative diseases.
Patrick Stewart, the celebrated actor known for his roles in "Star Trek" and the "X-Men" film franchise, has died at the age of 86. His family announced his passing on Thursday, stating that he died at his home in Los Angeles after a "brief and poignant journey" with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia.
In a statement shared on his Instagram account, Stewart's family conveyed his peaceful passing. "He has been held in the warm embrace of family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayer, tears, laughter, and the kind of profound emotion that only he could inspire after a lifetime of devotion to us all," the statement read. "We will forever cherish the peaceful ease and reflection on his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grace."
The family also requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Johns Hopkins Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center Fund and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Caregiver Resources.
Lewy body dementia, according to the Mayo Clinic, is a condition characterized by a progressive decline in mental abilities. Its symptoms can overlap with those of Parkinson's disease, potentially including muscle rigidity, slowed movement, difficulties with walking, and tremors.