Tragic news recently: Mr. Patrick Stewart has passed away at the age of 86.

The news from his Instagram story states, “His sonorous voice and singular talent will forever be synonymous with indelible performances in every genre. He explored the human condition in all its poetic complexity and brought hope not only to the far reaches of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but into science fiction’s most iconic final frontier aboard the Starship Enterprise…His professional accomplishments were humbly matched by his philanthropy and activism on behalf of human rights, survivors of domestic violence, global refugees, veterans’ mental health services, and animal welfare, particularly his cherished foster pitties. He was a Knight, Chancellor, motor sport enthusiast, and lifelong Huddersfield Football fan. He will be remembered for the dignity, compassion and humanity he brought to every role — in his art and life.”

Stewart gained international recognition as Captain Jean-Luc Picard on Star Trek: The Next Generation and as Charles Xavier in Marvel’s X-Men series (and various Marvel Studios follow-ups). He spent his early acting days working in theater production in the 1960s, which led to his joining the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1966 and staying with them for sixteen years. Some productions included “Uncle Vanya”, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, “The Merchant of Venice”, and “Titus Andronicus”.

He became a sought-after unknown British actor for Star Trek, playing the role for many years. Mr. Stewart has been on record saying the role changed his life and wealth in the industry, and that it carries messages for the next generation. He also ventured into the Marvel stratosphere by playing the psychic Charles Xavier in seven X-Men films under Fox and two under the MCU banner, including the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, his final film role. Stewart had a very close friendship with Ian McKellen, with whom he has starred in multiple projects throughout his storied career. He has been nominated for four Emmy Awards and three Golden Globes.

In his last portion of his life, Stewart had been dealing with Alzheimer’s and Lewy body dementia.

He is survived by his third wife, Sunny Ozell, his daughter, Sophie Stewart, and his son, actor Daniel Stewart. May he Rest In Peace.