The acclaimed British actor celebrated worldwide for his roles in Star Trek and X-Men, Sir Patrick Stewart, has died at the age of 86.
Stewart died at his home in Los Angeles on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, following a period with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia. His family said he was surrounded by loved ones.
Known for bringing his classical theatre experience to major film and television productions, Stewart enjoyed a career spanning more than six decades across stage and screen.
Here are 10 things to know about his life, career and legacy.
1. Shakespearean roots
Long before becoming a familiar face in Hollywood, Stewart established himself as a respected stage actor. He spent several years with the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company in the United Kingdom, performing in classical productions and developing the theatrical skills that would later shape his screen performances.
2. Early baldness became his trademark
Stewart began losing his hair at a young age and was completely bald by the age of 19. Although he initially worried that his appearance might affect his acting prospects, it eventually became one of his most recognisable features.
3. He was initially uncertain about Star Trek
When Stewart was cast as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation at the age of 47, he was not convinced the series would succeed. He reportedly left his suitcases unpacked for weeks because he expected the production to end quickly. Instead, the role became one of the defining performances of his career.
4. He earned a Guinness World Record
Stewart earned a Guinness World Record for the longest career as a live-action Marvel character. He portrayed Professor Charles Xavier, also known as Professor X, across the X-Men franchise for more than two decades.
5. He received a knighthood
In 2010, Queen Elizabeth II knighted Stewart at Buckingham Palace in recognition of his contributions to drama and the performing arts.
6. He shared a close friendship with Ian McKellen
Stewart maintained a celebrated friendship with fellow actor Sir Ian McKellen over several decades. McKellen officiated Stewart’s 2013 wedding to singer Sunny Ozell.
7. His family
Stewart is survived by his wife, Sunny Ozell, and his two adult children, Daniel and Sophia.
8. He championed domestic violence survivors
Drawing from his childhood experience of witnessing domestic abuse at home, Stewart became a prominent advocate against domestic violence. He also supported Refuge, a UK charity that provides assistance to survivors of domestic abuse.
9. He advocated for animal welfare
Away from acting, Stewart was a passionate animal lover, particularly known for his affection for and support of pit bulls. He used his public profile to challenge negative perceptions of the breed and promote animal welfare.
10. His final onscreen role
Stewart continued working in the entertainment industry late into his life. His final onscreen appearance is set to be a return as Professor Charles Xavier in Marvel’s Avengers: Doomsday.