Patrick Stewart, Star of ‘Star Trek’ and ‘X-Men,’ Dies at Age 86 – The Epoch Times

Patrick Stewart, Star of ‘Star Trek’ 

British actor Sir Patrick Stewart, best known for his roles in the “Star Trek” franchise and “X-Men” films, has died at age 86.

Stewart died on Oct. 28 at his home in Los Angeles, according to his longtime spokesperson Kelly Bush Novak. He had been living with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia.

With a career spanning more than six decades, millions came to know him as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” but his roots began in the theater.

Born in 1940, in Mirfield, Yorkshire, England, Stewart developed his craft through classical training and, in 1966, joined the Royal Shakespeare Company, where he spent years performing the works of Shakespeare and other major playwrights.

His international breakthrough came in 1987, when he was cast as Picard, commander of the starship Enterprise. Stewart’s performance helped establish the television series “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” He went on to reprise the character in feature films and the series “Star Trek: Picard.”

“Fans across the world mourn the passing of a true and irreplaceable legend,” wrote fellow Star Trek actor George Takei in a Facebook tribute. “As Captain Jean-Luc Picard, Patrick Stewart took the starship Enterprise to places it had never gone before.

“He inspired a whole next generation of star-gazers who looked longingly ahead to a brighter future for all humanity,” he said. “Our hearts are heavy, indeed. Rest in the heavens, Captain.”

In 2000, Stewart entered another cultural universe as Professor Charles Xavier in “X-Men.” His portrayal of the wise mentor to a community of mutants confronting prejudice and fear became a central part of the film franchise, including his acclaimed 2017 appearance alongside Hugh Jackman in “Logan.”

“All of us at Marvel Studios are deeply saddened by the passing of Sir Patrick Stewart,” Marvel Studios wrote in a social media tribute. “Sir Patrick brought Professor Charles Xavier to life with extraordinary grace, intelligence, and humanity, defining the character for generations of fans, from X-Men to Logan to Avengers: Doomsday.

“He was a singular talent, a generous collaborator, and a true gentleman,” the post continued. “Our hearts go out to his wife, Sunny, his children, his friends, and the countless fans around the world whose lives he touched with his art.”

Stewart continued to perform onstage, taking on Shakespearean roles, including Macbeth, and appearing in productions of Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot” with longtime friend and fellow actor Ian McKellen. His performance in “Macbeth” earned him a Tony Award nomination in 2008.

Stewart was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010 for his services to drama. He also used his public platform to support causes beyond entertainment. His advocacy against domestic violence was shaped in part by his childhood experiences.

“Sir Patrick Stewart turned the pain of witnessing his mother’s abuse into a lifelong campaign against domestic violence and a powerful voice for women’s rights,” wrote the non-profit National Organization for Women in a post on Facebook. “His legacy of compassion and advocacy will not be forgotten. May he rest in peace.”

Stewart is survived by his wife, singer-songwriter Sunny Ozell, and his children, Sophia and Daniel.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.