British actor Patrick Stewart, celebrated worldwide for his portrayal of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men film franchise, has died at the age of 86. He died at his home in Los Angeles on 28 October, surrounded by his wife, family and close friends.
According to statements released by his family and representatives, Stewart had been dealing with health problems related to Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia. He spent his final hours in the company of loved ones, surrounded by music, prayers and family.
From Star Trek to X-Men
Born on 13 July 1940 in Mirfield, England, Stewart built a career spanning more than six decades.
He achieved international recognition through Star Trek: The Next Generation, portraying Captain Jean-Luc Picard for seven television seasons after the show's debut in 1987. He later reprised the role in several films and in the series Star Trek: Picard.
Stewart also gained a new generation of admirers through his portrayal of Professor Charles Xavier, also known as Professor X, in the X-Men films, a role he played for more than two decades.
A life devoted to theatre
Beyond television and film, Stewart was a distinguished stage actor with the Royal Shakespeare Company, earning acclaim for performances in Shakespearean productions including Hamlet, King Lear and Macbeth.
He frequently collaborated with his close friend Ian McKellen, including in productions of Waiting for Godot and No Man's Land.
In 2010, Stewart was knighted for services to drama, capping a career that earned him numerous honours and award nominations.
News of Stewart's death prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the entertainment world. Fellow actors, filmmakers and fans praised his intelligence, humanity and enduring contribution to stage and screen.
Stewart is survived by his wife, Sunny Ozell, and two children from his first marriage
