The world is remembering Sir Patrick Stewart, the legendary British actor whose remarkable performances across theatre, television and film made him one of the most respected figures in entertainment.

Stewart, best known for playing Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men films, died on October 28, 2026, at the age of 86.

Following news of his death, tributes have poured in from fellow actors, filmmakers and fans around the world. ABC News’ World News Tonight also looked back at his extraordinary career, revisiting a personal interview in which Stewart reflected on his childhood, his relationship with fear and the important role theatre played in his life.

A Difficult Childhood That Shaped His Life

Patrick Stewart was born on July 13, 1940, in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, England.

His childhood was not always easy. He grew up in a working-class family, and his father, Alfred Stewart, was a former soldier who struggled with domestic violence.

In later years, Patrick spoke about the difficult environment in which he grew up and how those experiences affected him.

An important influence came from his schoolteacher, Cecil Dormand, who recognized his interest in literature and introduced him to the works of William Shakespeare.

That encouragement helped Stewart discover a passion that would eventually define his life.

As explored in ABC News’ special interview retrospective, Stewart described theatre as a place where he could feel safe, express himself and find a sense of belonging.

Theatre Became His Home

Before becoming an international television and film star, Stewart spent decades developing his craft on the British stage.

He joined the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1966 and performed in numerous classical productions. His work included Shakespearean roles as well as performances in modern theatre.

For Stewart, acting was more than a profession. Theatre offered an environment in which he could explore emotions, understand human experiences and overcome personal fears.

His stage career established his reputation as a powerful performer with a commanding voice and remarkable ability to bring complex characters to life.

The Guardian’s obituary describes how his journey from regional theatre to the Royal Shakespeare Company laid the foundation for his later international success.

Becoming Captain Jean-Luc Picard

Stewart’s career changed dramatically in 1987 when he was cast as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation.

He was already 47 years old when he accepted the role, which initially surprised some television viewers because of his background in classical theatre.

However, his performance quickly became one of the defining elements of the series.

As captain of the USS Enterprise, Picard became known for his intelligence, leadership, diplomacy and belief in humanity’s potential.

Stewart continued playing the character through seven television seasons, four feature films and the later series Star Trek: Picard.

According to Reuters’ report on his career, the role transformed him into an international star.

Professor X and the X-Men Legacy

Stewart introduced another generation of audiences to his work when he portrayed Professor Charles Xavier in the 2000 film X-Men.

The character, also known as Professor X, became the founder and mentor of the X-Men, a group of mutants seeking peaceful coexistence between humans and mutants.

Stewart brought wisdom, compassion and authority to the role, appearing in several films across the franchise.

His on-screen relationship with Ian McKellen’s Magneto became one of the most memorable rivalries in superhero cinema.

The two actors also developed a close friendship away from the cameras, which became widely admired by fans.

His Reflections on Fear and Self-Discovery

One of the most meaningful aspects of Stewart’s legacy was his willingness to speak about his personal experiences.

In his ABC News interview with Diane Sawyer, he discussed how his childhood influenced his relationship with fear and how performing on stage helped him develop confidence.

Theatre allowed him to step into different lives and emotions, creating a space where he could express himself in ways that were difficult during his early years.

His reflections offer a more personal understanding of the man behind some of cinema and television’s most recognizable characters.

Watch the ABC News interview retrospective featuring Patrick Stewart.

Tributes Pour In From Around the World

Following Stewart’s death, fellow actors and collaborators shared memories of his talent, kindness and influence.

Ian McKellen remembered his longtime friend with affection, while Hugh Jackman described him as a great friend and mentor.

William Shatner and George Takei also paid tribute to Stewart, recognizing the lasting influence of his portrayal of Captain Picard.

The Associated Press reported on the tributes from colleagues, co-stars and fans across the entertainment industry.

A Legacy That Will Continue for Generations

In 2010, Stewart was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his services to drama.

His career included numerous theatre awards, television honors and major film roles. He also became an advocate for human rights and survivors of domestic violence, drawing on his own experiences to support efforts to raise awareness.

From Shakespearean performances to the bridge of the USS Enterprise and the world of the X-Men, Stewart built a career that crossed generations and genres.

He will be remembered not only for the characters he portrayed but also for the honesty, intelligence and humanity he brought to his work.

Sir Patrick Stewart leaves behind an extraordinary artistic legacy, one that will continue to inspire actors and audiences around the world.

Sir Patrick Stewart (July 13, 1940 – October 28, 2026).

Sources: ABC News, Reuters, Associated Press and The Guardian.