86: Age Patrick Stewart reached before dementia took him
Ian McKellen shared memories of their Royal Shakespeare Company days and Stewart's move to Hollywood.
By Talia Bennett ·
Patrick Stewart died at 86. The actor passed away on Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles. His spokesperson confirmed the news on social media on Thursday, citing a short battle with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia.
Ian McKellen paid tribute to his friend on Instagram. The two men met more than 50 years ago as young actors with the Royal Shakespeare Company. McKellen recalled watching Stewart’s career shift after he accepted a role in Star Trek.
McKellen questioned the decision at the time. He asked Stewart if he wanted to risk getting lost in Hollywood for years. McKellen wrote that Stewart took the risk and thanked him for doing so.
The tribute highlighted Stewart’s Yorkshire roots and personal character. McKellen described him as a man who wore his heart on his sleeve. He called Stewart someone to rely on, admire, and love.
McKellen also teased Stewart’s final film appearance. The actor will be seen in Avengers: Doomsday. McKellen noted that this farewell performance is yet to be released.
