Many fans and famous friends are paying tribute to the late actor Patrick Stewart, who passed away Wednesday at age 86. The actor was best known for his roles in “Star Trek” and the “X-Men” franchise. A spokesperson shared a brief announcement following his sudden passing, announcing that he suffered from a brief struggle with Alzheimer’s prior to his death.
Patrick Stewart Passed Away Following A ‘Brief And Poignant Journey With Alzheimer’s Disease’
As The Blast previously reported, the actor passed away on Wednesday in his home in Los Angeles. The beloved actor died after “A brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia,” according to his longtime spokesperson, Kelly Bush Novak.
“He has been held in the warm embrace of family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayer, tears, laughter and the kind of profound emotion that only he could inspire after a lifetime of devotion to us all,” Novak wrote. “We will forever cherish the peaceful ease and reflection on his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grace.”
Kevin Feige Remembers The Legacy Stewart Left Behind
Marvel boss Kevin Feige was among the first to pay tribute to the late actor, who portrayed Professor Charles Xavier in many “X-Men” movies.
“I’ll never forget the first time I saw Sir Patrick Stewart on the set of the first X-Men,” Feige said. “After years of knowing him as the inimitable Captain Picard, I was in awe — and he turned out to be everything I had seen on screen and more: brilliant, charming, warm, generous, with a quiet strength and gravitas.”
“Away from the cameras, he was even more remarkable, with a wonderfully sharp sense of humor. It was a true privilege to know him and to work with him,” he continued. “His legacy lives on not only in decades of extraordinary work, but in the many, many people he mentored. He will be deeply missed.”
Hugh Jackman Honors ‘One Of The Greats’
Actor Hugh Jackman shared two photos of himself with the late actor on Instagram. “We lost one of the greats of stage and screen today. And, in my book, a tremendous friend and man,” Jackman wrote. “I learned so much from him. I will miss you, Patrick Stewart, all of my days.”
Actress Dafne Keen added, “A giant amongst men. He will be so very missed,” alongside two red heart emojis.
William Shatner Reflects On A ‘Heartbreaking Week’
“Star Trek” actor William Shatner also paid tribute to the late Stewart.
“What a heartbreaking week it has been,” he wrote. “Sir Patrick Stewart was a friend, a colleague, and a magnificent actor. From the stage to the bridge of the Enterprise, he brought intelligence, grace, and a deep sense of humanity to everything he did.”
“Captain Picard stood for the best of us, and so did the man who played him. I was filled with affection and admiration for him and his work,” he continued. “My heart goes out to Sunny and his family. He will be deeply missed.”
Seth McFarlane Reflected On Patrick Stewart’s Work In ‘Family Guy’ & Other Projects
“Family Guy” creator Seth MacFarlane also took to Instagram to pay tribute with a lengthy caption.
“Patrick was one of those icons who we somehow all took for granted would always be with us.
I grew up as a fan, and was later gifted the privilege of becoming a colleague and friend, working with him for many years,” he wrote, reflecting on how they worked together on projects like “American Dad!”, “Family Guy”, and “Ted.”
“He was that rare actor who could take any bit of dialogue and elevate it, making a good writer sound great, and a great writer sound masterful,” he continued. “He was also as humble as they come. I remember exchanging emails with him a number of years ago when he was beginning day 1 of a new film.”
He went on to write, “He commented to me that he always walked onto a new set feeling like the biggest novice there. My stunned reaction was the same as anyone’s would be. I said, ‘Patrick, if you feel that way, the rest of us are screwed.’”
“We have lost a legendary actor today, and for many of us, a good friend,” he concluded. “He will be deeply missed by the entire planet.”
Marvel Studios Reflects On His MCU Legacy
The official Marvel Studios Twitter account also paid tribute to the actor who brought Professor Charles Xavier to life on the big screen.
“All of us at Marvel Studios are deeply saddened by the passing of Sir Patrick Stewart. Sir Patrick brought Professor Charles Xavier to life with extraordinary grace, intelligence, and humanity, defining the character for generations of fans,” they wrote.
They also listed some of his projects, including “X-Men,” “Logan,” and “Avengers: Doomsday.” The statement continued, “He was a singular talent, a generous collaborator, and a true gentleman. 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.”
“Avengers: Doomsday” is the last time that Stewart will portray Xavier. The film hits theaters on December 18, 2026.
