Patrick Stewart dies: William Shatner, others remember legendary actor

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Sir Patrick Stewart dead at 86

Sir Patrick Stewart, known for roles in 'Star Trek' and 'X-Men', died at 86. 

Tributes poured in across social media Thursday following the death of legendary actor Patrick Stewart.

Fans and fellow stars remembered his iconic roles and lasting impact on generations of audiences.

Social media reaction pours in for Patrick Stewart

William Shatner, who starred as Captain James T. Kirk in the "Star Trek" franchise, wrote Thursday, "What a heartbreaking week it has been. Sir Patrick Stewart was a friend, a colleague, and a magnificent actor. From the stage to the bridge of the Enterprise, he brought intelligence, grace, and a deep sense of humanity to everything he did. Captain Picard stood for the best of us, and so did the man who played him. I was filled with affection and admiration for him and his work. My heart goes out to Sunny and his family. He will be deeply missed."

George Takei, an actor known for his role in the "Star Trek" franchise, wrote, "Fans across the world mourn the passing of a true and irreplaceable legend. As Captain Jean-Luc Picard, Patrick Stewart took the starship Enterprise to places it had never gone before, and he inspired a whole next generation of star-gazers who looked longingly ahead to a brighter future for all humanity. Our hearts are heavy, indeed. Rest in the heavens, Captain."

Sir Patrick Stewart attends the EE BAFTA Film Awards 2023 at The Royal Festival Hall on February 19, 2023 in London, England. (Credit: Carlo Paloni/BAFTA via Getty Images)

Actor Hugh Jackman, took to Instagram Thursday, posting two photos of the pair together,  including one showing Hugh wrapping his arm around Patrick. 

Jackman wrote, "We lost one of the greats of stage and screen today. And, in my book, a tremendous friend and man. I learned so much from him. I will miss you, Patrick Stewart, all of my days." The two shared the screen for years in the "X-Men" franchise ... with Hugh playing Wolverine and Patrick portraying Professor Charles Xavier.

"All of us at Marvel Studios are deeply saddened by the passing of Sir Patrick Stewart. Sir Patrick brought Professor Charles Xavier to life with extraordinary grace, intelligence, and humanity, defining the character for generations of fans, from "X-Men" to "Logan" to "Avengers: Doomsday," Marvel Studios wrote on Thursday. "He was a singular talent, a generous collaborator, and a true gentleman. Our hearts go out to his wife Sunny, his children, his friends, and the countless fans around the world whose lives he touched with his art." 

Patrick Stewart dies 

The backstory:

Stewart’s death was confirmed by a post on his official social media page on Thursday, Oct. 29. 

It said Stewart died of Alzheimer's disease and Lewy Body Dementia. 

What they're saying:

"He has been held in warm embrace of family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayers, tears, laughter, and the kind of profound emotion that only he could inspire after a lifetime of devotion to us all," his social media page wrote. "We will forever cherish the peaceful ease and reflection of his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grace."

RELATED: Patrick Stewart, ‘Star Trek' and ‘XMen’ actor, dies at 86

In lieu of flowers, his account asked that memorial contributions be made to Johns Hopkins Alzheimer's Disease Research Fund and Alzheimer's Foundation of America Caregiver Resources.

This is a developing story. Check back for more updates.

The Source: The information for this story was provided by X, Facebook and other social media accounts. Previous FOX Local reporting contributed. This story was reported from Los Angeles.

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