Veteran British actor Sir Patrick Stewart, best known for playing Captain Jean-Luc Picard in 'Star Trek' and Professor Charles Xavier in the 'X-Men' franchise, has died at the age of 86. Stewart died at his home in Los Angeles following a "brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia", his longtime spokesperson Kelly Bush Novak confirmed.
The announcement was made through the actor's official social media accounts. A post also requested fans to make memorial contributions to the Johns Hopkins Alzheimer's Disease Research Center Fund and Alzheimer's Foundation of America Caregiver Resources instead of sending flowers.
Stewart is survived by his wife, singer Sunny Ozell, and his two children, Daniel and Sophia, from his first marriage to actor Sheila Falconer.
Hugh Jackman, William Shatner pay tribute
Tributes from the entertainment industry followed the news of Stewart's death. Hugh Jackman, who shared screen space with him in the 'X-Men' films as Wolverine, remembered the actor as a close friend.
"We lost one of the greats of stage and screen today. And, in my book, a tremendous friend and man. I learned so much from him. I will miss you, Patrick Stewart, all of my days," Jackman wrote on Instagram.
Marvel Studios also expressed grief over his death, remembering his portrayal of Professor Charles Xavier as one that defined the character for generations.
"Sir Patrick brought Professor Charles Xavier to life with extraordinary grace, intelligence, and humanity, defining the character for generations of fans, from X-Men to Logan to Avengers: Doomsday. 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," the studio said.
William Shatner, Stewart's fellow 'Star Trek' actor, also remembered him as a friend and colleague, praising the humanity he brought to his performances.
Patrick Stewart's six-decade career
Across a career spanning nearly 60 years, Stewart established himself in theatre, television and cinema. His achievements included two Laurence Olivier Awards and a Grammy Award. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010 for his services to drama.
His theatre career included a Broadway debut in 1971 with 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', followed by performances in 'Antony and Cleopatra' in London's West End. He made his television debut in 'Coronation Street' in 1967 and later appeared in 'Fall of Eagles', 'I, Claudius' and 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy'.
Stewart's final cinematic appearance is set to be in 'Avengers: Doomsday', which is scheduled for release in India on December 17.