By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Actor Patrick Stewart, best known for his roles as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and Professor Charles Xavier in the "X-Men" film franchise, died Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles at age 86. His spokesperson announced the death Thursday, stating Stewart passed away after a "brief and poignant journey" with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia.
Acclaimed screen and stage career
Stewart's portrayal of Captain Picard across seven seasons and four films made him a science-fiction icon, while his turn as Professor Xavier anchored the "X-Men" series beginning in 2000. Before achieving global fame, he spent 16 years with the Royal Shakespeare Company, performing in productions including "Macbeth," "The Merchant of Venice" and "Henry IV." He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010.
Industry tributes pour in
Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige praised Stewart's "quiet strength and gravitas" and called him a generous mentor. The Russo brothers, directors of the upcoming "Avengers: Doomsday" and "Avengers: Secret Wars," described him as "a legendary actor with an unmistakable presence." Co-stars William Shatner, Hugh Jackman, Wil Wheaton, Jonathan Frakes, and George Takei all shared personal remembrances, as did "Family Guy" creator Seth MacFarlane and actor Josh Gad.
Final film role upcoming
Stewart was set to reprise his role as Professor Xavier in "Avengers: Doomsday," scheduled for theatrical release on December 18. Marvel Studios honored him in a joint statement, noting his portrayal left "a lasting impression on generations of fans." The Royal Shakespeare Company called him "a colossus of both stage and screen and one of the finest classical Shakespearean actors of his generation."
