Patrick Stewart, the iconic actor renowned for his roles in the “Star Trek” and “X-Men” franchises, has passed away at the age of 86. His death on Wednesday in Los Angeles followed a brief battle with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy Body Dementia, illnesses that were not publicly disclosed prior to his passing.
Hugh Jackman, a close collaborator and friend, expressed his sorrow on social media, stating, “We lost one of the greats of stage and screen today. I learned so much from him. I will miss you, Patrick Stewart, all of my days.”
While many know Stewart as Professor Charles Xavier from “X-Men” or Captain Jean-Luc Picard from “Star Trek: The Next Generation,” his career on stage spanned decades, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the craft of acting.
Stewart’s theatrical repertoire included performances as Claudius and Macbeth, and he often captivated audiences with his one-man rendition of “A Christmas Carol.” He also appeared in acclaimed productions of Harold Pinter’s “No Man’s Land” and Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot,” alongside his friend Ian McKellen.
His portrayal of Macbeth, under the direction of Rupert Goold, received rave reviews and solidified his reputation as a masterful actor. The production, which debuted in 2007, garnered him a Tony Award nomination, with critics praising his performance as “an enthralling creation of frailty, appetite, egotism, and grim humor.”
Reflecting on his long-awaited role, Stewart told The Associated Press, “Nearly 50 years I’ve waited. I learned it when I was 14. I memorized all the soliloquies just because I thought they were great.”
Born in Mirfield, Yorkshire, Stewart grew up in a modest home without a bathroom, yet he found solace in drama from a young age. He joined an amateur drama group at 12 and later won a scholarship to the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, marking the beginning of his illustrious career.
Stewart’s upbringing was marked by challenges, including a difficult relationship with his father, a former British Army sergeant. In his memoir, he discussed the impact of domestic violence in his childhood and became a patron for Refuge, an organization supporting victims of domestic abuse.
He eventually joined the Royal Shakespeare Company, where he spent 14 years embodying a variety of characters from Shakespeare’s works. However, seeking broader opportunities, he ventured into film and television, leading him to the role of Captain Picard in “Star Trek,” a character that would bring him international fame.
“Star Trek: The Next Generation” ran for seven years and produced four films, with Stewart’s commanding presence and rich voice making him a beloved figure in science fiction. His iconic phrase, “Make it so,” became a hallmark of his character.
Stewart’s love for Shakespeare influenced his portrayal of Picard, as he approached the character with the same gravitas he would bring to a Shakespearean role. He even established the Paramount Shakespeare Company, fostering a love for the arts among aspiring actors.
In addition to his work in “Star Trek,” Stewart played Professor X in the “X-Men” films and reprised the role in various sequels. He also showcased his comedic side in shows like “Blunt Talk” and lent his voice to animated projects.
Stewart was also known for his witty social media presence, sharing humorous moments and engaging with fans online. He married singer Sunny Ozell in 2013, with Ian McKellen officiating the ceremony.
He is survived by his two children, Sophia and Daniel. As the world mourns the loss of this remarkable actor, his contributions to film and theater will forever be cherished.
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AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr contributed reporting.
