Sir Patrick Stewart has died at the age of 86 following a brief battle with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia. The BBC aired a tribute to the legendary actor on The One Show.
His wife Sunny confirmed that the film icon died at his home in Los Angeles after a "brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia". The news of his passing was shared on his Instagram page, where his loved ones issued a lengthy statement remembering the actor.
Tribute on The One Show
At the end of Friday's episode (October 30) of The One Show, hosts Roman Kemp and Clara Amfo took a moment to remember the actor. Clara said: "Just before we go, we wanted to say how sad we were to hear the news yesterday that the legendary Sir Patrick Stewart had died at the age of 86."
Roman added: "Now Sir Patrick Stewart, was known for his career defining roles in everything from Shakespeare to Star Trek. And in 2023, he shared stories from his life and career in a very special film for the one show. And we're now going to leave you with Sir Patrick reflecting on the moment he first stepped out onto the stage."
Sir Patrick's reflections
A tape of Sir Patrick then started playing, showing him reflecting on his career. He says: "The very first time I walked onto the stage, I felt something so powerful that it kind of stopped in my tracks."
"I felt safer than I'd ever felt in my life. When people have said to me 'You changed my life. Your show will change my life,' those things bring me such satisfaction and pleasure, because that was one of my objectives."
Legacy and family statement
His family's statement read in part: "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."
The statement added: "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."
The One Show can be streamed on BBC iPlayer.
