British actor Patrick Stewart dies at 86

British actor Patrick Stewart, known for his roles in the X-Men and Star Trek franchises, has died at the age of 86. His death was announced by his team on Thursday, October 29, following his passing on Wednesday, October 28, at his home in Los Angeles.

Cause of death and final moments

According to multiple reports, Stewart died as a result of Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia. He was surrounded by his wife, Sunny Ozell, and family members at the time of his death.

Career highlights and iconic roles

Stewart was recognized for his portrayal of Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men film series and Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation. He first gained international fame with the role of Captain Picard in the 1987 series, which he reprised in several films and later in the series Star Trek: Picard, which aired from 2020 to 2023.

Contributions to film and television

In 2000, he joined the Marvel universe by playing Charles Xavier in the first X-Men film and reprised the role in subsequent films, including X-Men 2, X-Men: The Last Stand, X-Men: Days of Future Past, and Logan. He also made a surprise appearance in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness in 2022 and was set to reprise the role in Avengers: Doomsday, scheduled for release in December 2026.

Theater background and honors

Stewart had a long career in theater, beginning with the Royal Shakespeare Company, where he performed some of Shakespeare's greatest roles. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010 for his services to theater, cinema, and television.

Personal life and legacy

He is survived by his wife Sunny Ozell, whom he married in 2013, as well as his two children, Daniel and Sophia. The family spokesperson, Kelly Bush Novak, stated that Stewart passed away in the warmth of his family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayers, tears, laughter, and the deep emotion he was known for evoking.

Charitable requests

The family requested that instead of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at Johns Hopkins or the caregiver resources of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America.