Patrick Stewart, 86, dies after brief battle with Alzheimer's and Lewy body dementia

Patrick Stewart died on Wednesday at the age of 86. The family confirmed the news on Thursday, stating the actor passed away at his Los Angeles home following a short period of illness. Stewart suffered from both Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia during his final days.

Stewart is best known for two defining roles in science fiction. He served as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation from 1987 to 1994. He later starred as Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men film series, a role he first took on in 2000. His performance in that franchise extended through multiple films and into the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, which is scheduled for theatrical release on December 18.

Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, offered a personal tribute on Thursday. He recalled meeting Stewart on the set of the first X-Men movie. Feige said he was in awe after years of knowing Stewart only as Captain Picard. He described the actor as brilliant, charming, and warm, noting that Stewart possessed a quiet strength and gravitas that matched his on-screen presence. Feige added that Stewart was even more remarkable off camera, citing his sharp sense of humor.

Feige stated that it was a privilege to work with Stewart. He emphasized that Stewart’s legacy extends to the many people he mentored. The Marvel Studios and Marvel Entertainment teams also posted a joint tribute on Instagram. The post described Stewart as a singular talent and a true gentleman. It expressed deep sadness over his passing and sent regards to his wife, Sunny, and their children.

Colleagues from the Star Trek franchise also paid homage. William Shatner, who played Captain James T. Kirk, shared a photo of the two actors on Instagram. Shatner called Stewart a friend and a magnificent actor. He noted that they met as Kirk and Picard in the 1994 film Star Trek: Generations. Shatner said Stewart brought intelligence and grace to every role, representing the best of the franchise.

Wil Wheaton, who starred alongside Stewart in Star Trek: The Next Generation, shared a throwback photo on Instagram. He accompanied the image with a broken heart emoji and the words Godspeed, Captain. Jonathan Frakes, who played Commander William Riker in the same series, posted a photo of Stewart on his Instagram Story. Frakes wrote rest in peace my friend to honor his longtime co-star.

Terry Matalas, the showrunner for the third and final season of Star Trek: Picard, also honored Stewart. Matalas shared a photo of the late actor smiling on his Instagram Story. He wrote, Oh Captain, my Captain. This is how I’ll always remember you. The outpouring of tributes highlights the widespread respect Stewart commanded across different generations of actors and fans.

Stewart’s final appearance will be in Avengers: Doomsday, which opens in theaters on December 18. His family, including his wife Sunny Ozell, received condolences from the industry. The actor’s career spanned decades of work on stage and screen, leaving a mark on fans worldwide through his art.