Hollywood figures honor late actor Patrick Stewart
Colleagues and industry leaders posted tributes after Patrick Stewart died at 86 following complications from Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
Patrick Stewart, known for his roles as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men franchise, died on Wednesday at age 86 after a brief battle with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia, his longtime representative said.
A range of co-stars and executives shared memories on social media. Kevin Feige, head of Marvel Studios, said Stewart was "brilliant, charming, warm, generous, with a quiet strength and gravitas" and praised his mentorship of many people. > "It was a true privilege to know him and to work with him. His legacy lives on not only in decades of extraordinary work, but in the many, many people he mentored. He will be deeply missed."
Ian McKellen highlighted Stewart’s Yorkshire roots and honesty, noting his “stern honesty” and “heart on his sleeve.” William Shatner called him a “friend, a colleague, and a magnificent actor,” adding that Captain Picard represented “the best of us.” > "My heart goes out to Sunny and his family. He will be deeply missed."
Hugh Jackman described Stewart as “one of the greats of stage and screen” and a “tremendous friend and man.” Marvel Studios posted that Stewart defined Professor Xavier with “extraordinary grace, intelligence, and humanity.”
Seth MacFarlane recalled working with Stewart on several animated projects, saying the actor could elevate any dialogue and remained humble despite his stature. Minnie Driver expressed personal loss, recalling Stewart’s advice and humor.
Other tributes came from Jonathan Frakes, Wil Wheaton, Lea Thompson, Kumail Nanjiani and George Takei, each noting Stewart’s impact on fans and fellow performers.
Stewart’s family, represented by his wife Sunny, received condolences from the entertainment community worldwide.