Star Trek Stars React to Patrick Stewart’s Death: ‘Godspeed, Captain’
Stewart’s Star Trek legacy
The English actor’s death was announced on Thursday, October 29. He was 86 and had faced what was described as a “brief” battle with Alzheimer’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia.
One of Stewart’s best-known roles was Captain Jean-Luc Picard, whom he portrayed in multiple Star Trek films and television projects. After news of his death, cast members from different parts of the franchise honored their costar on social media.
Shatner remembers a friend
William Shatner, who played Captain Kirk in the original Star Trek series, called Stewart a friend, colleague and magnificent actor in a post on X. He praised Stewart’s work on stage and aboard the Enterprise, saying the actor brought intelligence, grace and humanity to his roles.
Shatner said Picard stood for the best of humanity, adding that Stewart did too. He also expressed affection and admiration for Stewart and his work, and sent condolences to Sunny and Stewart’s family.
Takei honors Picard’s impact
George Takei, who played Lt. Hikaru Sulu in the original series and several later films, wrote on Instagram that fans around the world were mourning a “true and irreplaceable legend.” He said Stewart’s Picard took the Enterprise into new territory.
Takei also credited the character with inspiring a new generation of fans to look toward a brighter future for humanity. He ended his tribute with a farewell to the captain.
Key points
- Patrick Stewart died at 86 after a reported brief battle with Alzheimer’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia.
- Stewart played Captain Jean-Luc Picard in multiple Star Trek films and television projects.
- William Shatner remembered Stewart as a friend, colleague and magnificent actor.
- George Takei said Stewart’s Picard inspired a new generation of fans.