British actor Patrick Stewart has died aged 86. The Yorkshire-born performer, known for his roles as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men films, died Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles.
His longtime spokesperson, Kelly Bush Novak, announced the death, saying Stewart had been on "a brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia."
Family and Friends at His Side
In a statement, Bush Novak said Stewart "has been held in the warm embrace of family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayer, tears, laughter and the kind of profound emotion that only he could inspire after a lifetime of devotion to us all."
The spokesperson added: "We will forever cherish the peaceful ease and reflection on his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grace."
A Career of Iconic Roles
Stewart brought a Shakespearean touch to his most famous parts, which also included a celebrated friendship with fellow actor Sir Ian McKellen. Tributes have been pouring in for the star, who was widely admired for his stage and screen work.
