Hollywood mourns Patrick Stewart's passing

Actor Patrick Stewart died in Los Angeles on Wednesday at the age of 86. His spokesperson said he had a brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy Body Dementia. The news prompted an immediate wave of tributes from his fellow actors and production studios.

William Shatner, who worked with Stewart on the original Star Trek series, released a statement calling him a magnificent actor. Shatner noted that Stewart brought intelligence and grace to every role, from the stage to the bridge of the Enterprise. He added that Captain Picard stood for the best of humanity, just like the man who played him.

Hugh Jackman posted on Instagram that he lost one of the greats of stage and screen. Jackman, who starred alongside Stewart in the X-Men films, described Stewart as a tremendous friend and man. He said he learned a great deal from Stewart and would miss him for the rest of his life.

Kevin Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, issued a statement recalling the first time he saw Stewart on set for the initial X-Men movie. Feige said he was in awe after knowing Stewart primarily as Captain Picard. He described Stewart as brilliant, charming, and warm, with a sharp sense of humor that stood out even away from the cameras.

George Takei, another Star Trek veteran, shared his grief on social media. Takei stated that fans around the world mourn the loss of a true legend. He remembered how Stewart took the starship Enterprise to new places and inspired a new generation of star gazers.

Seth MacFarlane recalled working with Stewart on American Dad, Family Guy, and Ted. MacFarlane said Stewart was a rare actor who could elevate any dialogue. He shared an email exchange where Stewart admitted to feeling like a novice on a new set. MacFarlane replied that if Stewart felt that way, the rest of the cast was in trouble.

Ricky Gervais posted a video of an outtake from the BBC and HBO comedy series Extras. Gervais called Stewart an actor he could not believe agreed to do a specific scene. He noted that Stewart did not mind when Gervais ruined every take. Kumail Nanjiani kept his tribute short, stating that Stewart was the best. Marvel Studios and SAG-AFTRA also issued statements expressing their sadness and condolences to Stewart's wife Sunny, his children, and his fans.