Patrick Stewart, Legendary Actor, Dies at 86
Stars Hugh Jackman and William Shatner lead tributes to the acclaimed performer known for his roles as Captain Picard and Professor X.
Actor Patrick Stewart, celebrated for his iconic roles as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and Professor Charles Xavier in the "X-Men" film series, died Wednesday at his Los Angeles home. He was 86.
Stewart's death followed a brief period of illness, according to a statement from his publicist. He had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia. His wife, Sunny Ozell, was by his side.
Tributes from Co-stars
Hugh Jackman, who starred as Wolverine opposite Stewart's Professor Xavier, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. "We lost one of the greats of stage and screen today," Jackman wrote, recalling lessons learned from the veteran actor. "I will miss you, Patrick Stewart, all of my days."
William Shatner, who originated the role of Captain Kirk in "Star Trek," also remembered Stewart. "What a heartbreaking week it has been," Shatner stated, referencing the recent death of "Star Trek" co-star Walter Koenig. "Sir Patrick Stewart was a friend, a colleague, and a magnificent actor. From the stage to the bridge of the Enterprise, he brought intelligence, grace, and a deep sense of humanity to everything he did."
Shatner and Stewart shared the screen in the 1994 film "Star Trek Generations," which marked a transition for the franchise, with Stewart's "The Next Generation" cast taking the lead.
A Storied Career
Stewart's career spanned decades and genres, from classical theater to blockbuster science fiction and superhero films. He was a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company, making his stage debut in London in 1966 and on Broadway in 1971. He received a Laurence Olivier Award for his performance in "Antony and Cleopatra."
His international stardom solidified with his role as Captain Picard, which he played from 1987 to 1994 in "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and later reprised in "Star Trek: Picard" from 2020 to 2023. He also gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Professor Charles Xavier in the "X-Men" films from 2000 to 2017.
Stewart was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010 for his services to drama. He also dedicated himself to philanthropy and activism, supporting human rights, services for domestic violence survivors, refugee aid, veterans' mental health, and animal welfare.
Personal Life
Born in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, Stewart's early life was marked by an abusive father, an experience he often spoke about, crediting his English teacher with guiding him toward acting and Shakespeare.
Stewart was married three times. His first marriage was to Sheila Falconer, with whom he had two children, Daniel and Sophia. His second marriage was to "Star Trek: The Next Generation" producer Wendy Neuss. In 2013, he married singer and songwriter Sunny Ozell. The couple met in 2008 when Ozell was working as a waitress in New York.
Stewart's distinguished career was characterized by his commitment to his craft, his memorable performances, and his profound impact on both the stage and screen.