Veteran Actor Patrick Stewart Dies at 86 After Battle With Dementia

Veteran British actor Patrick Stewart, widely recognised for his roles in Star Trek and the X-Men film franchise, has died at the age of 86.

His death was announced on Thursday, October 29, 2026, by his longtime spokesperson, Kelly Bush Novak. She disclosed that the actor had been battling Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia.

According to a statement shared on his social media pages, Stewart spent his final moments surrounded by family and friends, including his wife, Sunny Ozell.

The statement said he was surrounded by music, prayers, tears and laughter, adding that he remained in the loving company of people who had supported him throughout his life.

Born on July 13, 1940, in Mirfield, England, Patrick Stewart built an acting career that spanned more than six decades.

He became internationally famous for playing Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation, which ran from 1987 to 1994. He later returned to the role in several films and the television series Star Trek: Picard.

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Stewart also earned worldwide recognition for portraying Professor Charles Xavier, popularly known as Professor X, in the X-Men film franchise. His first appearance in the role came in 2000.

In recognition of his contribution to drama, the British actor was knighted in 2010. He had also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1996.

Patrick Stewart is survived by his wife, Sunny Ozell, and his two children, Daniel and Sophie, from his first marriage.

His performances across television, film and theatre established him as one of Britain’s most recognised actors.