Patrick Stewart's Passing: The actor died Wednesday in Los Angeles at age 86

Patrick Stewart died Wednesday at his home in Los Angeles. The actor was 86 years old. His family announced the news on Thursday.

The family stated that Stewart spent a brief period fighting Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia. They described his final days as a poignant journey. He was survived by his wife, Sunny Ozell, and his children.

Stewart is widely recognized for two major roles in television and film. He played Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation. He also portrayed Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men movie franchise. That cinematic role began in 2000.

Kevin Feige, the president of Marvel Studios, issued a statement Thursday. He recalled meeting Stewart on the set of the first X-Men film. Feige said he was in awe after years of watching Stewart portray Captain Picard.

Feige described Stewart as brilliant, charming, and warm. He noted that Stewart possessed a quiet strength and gravitas. Feige added that Stewart had a sharp sense of humor offscreen. He called working with the actor a true privilege.

Marvel Studios and Marvel Entertainment posted a joint tribute on Instagram Thursday. The post honored Stewart's portrayal of Professor Xavier. The company stated that Stewart brought grace and intelligence to the character. They said his work left a lasting impression on generations of fans.

Stewart will appear as Xavier in the movie Avengers: Doomsday. That film is scheduled for release in theaters on Dec. 18. The Marvel post described Stewart as a singular talent and a true gentleman. It expressed condolences to his wife and family.

Wil Wheaton, who starred with Stewart in Star Trek: The Next Generation, posted a throwback photo on Instagram Thursday. He included a broken heart emoji with the words Godspeed, Captain. Jonathan Frakes, who played Commander William Riker in the same series, shared a photo on his Instagram Story. Frakes wrote Rest in peace my friend.

Terry Matalas served as showrunner for the third season of Star Trek: Picard. He posted a photo of Stewart smiling on his Instagram Story. Matalas wrote Oh Captain, my Captain. This is how I’ll always remember you. William Shatner, who played Captain James T. Kirk in the original Star Trek series, also posted a tribute.

Shatner shared a photo of himself with Stewart. He described Stewart as a friend and a magnificent actor. Shatner said Stewart brought intelligence and a deep sense of humanity to his roles. He noted that Stewart and his character Picard represented the best of the franchise. The two actors first met in the 1994 film Star Trek: Generations. Shatner sent his heart to Sunny Ozell and Stewart's family.