Sir Patrick Stewart, the English actor celebrated for playing Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men films, has died at 86, according to a statement posted to his Instagram account on Thursday.
The statement said Stewart passed away on Wednesday at his Los Angeles home, surrounded by family and friends and cared for by his wife, Sunny.
It described his final moments as peaceful, accompanied by live music, prayers, tears and laughter.
“We announce with great sorrow the passing of Sir Patrick Stewart yesterday at his home in Los Angeles,” the statement partly read.
Born on July 13, 1940, Stewart became globally known for his portrayal of Picard and for his role as Charles Xavier.
He also built a distinguished classical theatre career, including his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
