Patrick Stewart Death: Ian McKellen, Hugh Jackman, Star Trek, X-Men, Marvel Pays Tearful Tributes To 'Fellow Mutant'

Hollywood is mourning the loss of celebrated actor Sir Patrick Stewart, who became an icon across generations for his roles as Professor Charles Xavier in X-Men and Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek. His death at 86 has prompted a flood of tributes from his co-stars and fellow filmmakers. Hugh Jackman called him a terrific friend, Ian McKellen reflected on their friendship that spanned decades. Rebecca Romijn and Famke Janssen paid tribute to their fellow mutant, while Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige praised Stewart's warmth and generosity. His Star Trek co-stars remembered him too for his extraordinary career and lasting legacy.

Hugh Jackman, who starred as Wolverine opposite Stewart's Professor X in the X-Men movies, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram. Their on-screen chemistry became one of the defining relationships of the franchise, a reflection of the friendship they had developed over the years. "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," he wrote.

Ian McKellen, who played Magneto to Stewart's Professor X, reminisced about their friendship and shared theatre roots. He was a Yorkshire man, honest, straightforward, and wore his heart on his sleeve, so he could be relied upon, admired and loved. The duo first met while working for the Royal Shakespeare Company. When Stewart accepted the lead in Star Trek, McKellen remembered wondering if Hollywood would steal him away from British theatre. Stewart went on to become an international star but kept on performing classical works on stage.

McKellen also pointed out that's yet to be seen in Avengers: Doomsday, with Stewart expected to reprise his role. As for their last performance as Magneto and Professor X.

Rebecca Romijn, who played Mystique in the original X-Men films, shared a video tribute on Instagram. She said she was grateful to have known Stewart for 25 years, both as a fellow mutant and a member of Starfleet. Romijn remembered his mischievous humour, commanding voice and classical training, describing him as an inspiration. Her caption read, "What a gift to have been your friend. Rest in peace, dear Patrick." Romijn shared that he was an inspiration, remembering his mischievous humour, commanding voice and classical training. "I'll miss my friend dearly. Rest in peace, Patrick."

Famke Janssen, who played Jean Grey/Phoenix, also paid tribute to Stewart in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. Recalling their work together on Star Trek: The Next Generation and the X-Men films, she said, "Patrick was a legend. One of the greats." She added that he would be missed but never forgotten.

Kelsey Grammer, who played Beast in the X-Men films, remembered Stewart as a wonderful person and a great actor. “Sending love to Patrick and all of his fans and family. He was just terrific,” Grammer said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. He also praised Stewart’s guest appearance on Frasier, calling it one of the sitcom’s greatest guest performances.

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige recalled meeting Stewart on the set of the first X-Men film. Having known him as Captain Picard, Feige said he was in awe of the actor, who proved to be "brilliant, charming, warm, generous". Feige paid tribute to Stewart's "wicked sense of humour" and to the many people he mentored, adding it had been a privilege to know and work with him.

Marvel Studios also celebrated Stewart's portrayal of Professor Charles Xavier, saying he brought extraordinary grace, intelligence and humanity to the character. The studio described him as a "singular talent", a generous collaborator and a true gentleman, while extending condolences to his wife, Sunny Ozell, his children and fans worldwide.

Russo Brothers wrote, "We've been lucky enough to work with some of our childhood heroes. And Sir Patrick Stewart will always be one of them. A legendary actor with an unmistakeable presence, and an unmatched integrity. Thank you for entertaining all of us, sir. And for teaching us humanity, both on and off the screen. Sending our love to your family, friends, and fans around the world."

William Shatner, who portrayed Captain James T. Kirk, honoured his Star Trek colleague. They shared the screen in Star Trek Generations (1994), which brought both Kirk and Picard to the screen. Shatner remembered Stewart as a friend, colleague and magnificent actor, praising the intelligence, grace and humanity he brought to Picard.

George Takei also celebrated Stewart’s contribution to the franchise and his ability to inspire audiences. Jonathan Frakes, Stewart’s Star Trek: The Next Generation co-star and director, shared a heartfelt tribute, while Star Trek: Picard showrunner Terry Matalas posted a photograph captioned, "Oh Captain, my Captain."

Stewart died at 86 at his home in Los Angeles after what his representative described as a "brief and poignant journey" with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia. His family said he died surrounded by loved ones, music, prayer, tears and laughter.