Patrick Stewart dead: 'Star Trek' captain, 'X-Men' star dies

Key Points:

• British actor Patrick Stewart, renowned for his roles as Jean-Luc Picard in "Star Trek: The Next Generation" and Professor Charles Xavier in the "X-Men" franchise, has died at age 86 from Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia.
• Stewart's career spanned 60 years, beginning with classical stage acting in the Royal Shakespeare Company before gaining fame in television and film, notably leading "Star Trek: The Next Generation" for seven seasons and reprising Picard in multiple films and the recent "Star Trek: Picard" series.
• Initially hesitant to join "Star Trek," Stewart became iconic in the role of Picard, influencing science fiction and popular culture; he also portrayed Professor Xavier in five "X-Men" films and appeared in Marvel's "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness" and the upcoming "Avengers: Doomsday."
• Colleagues and studios praised Stewart for his talent, grace, and generosity, with Marvel Studios highlighting his defining portrayal of Professor Xavier and "Star Trek" producer Alex Kurtzman lauding his commitment to evolving the character of Picard.
• Stewart is survived by his wife Sunny and children Daniel and Sophie Alexandra; his legacy endures through his impactful performances across stage, television, and film.