Los Angeles: The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of legendary British actor Patrick Stewart, who passed away at the age of 86. Best known for bringing Captain Jean-Luc Picard to life in Star Trek and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men franchise, Stewart enjoyed a remarkable career spanning more than six decades.
The actor died at his home in Los Angeles on October 28, following a brief illness involving Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia. His death was announced by his spokesperson on October 29.
While millions remember him for his unforgettable performances in science fiction and superhero films, Stewart’s acting journey went far beyond these two franchises. From Shakespearean theatre and historical dramas to comedy shows and animated series, he proved his versatility across different genres.
As fans remember the veteran actor and celebrate his contribution to cinema and television, here is a look at 10 of his most memorable films and shows that are worth revisiting.
Patrick Stewart’s best performances
1. Star Trek franchise (1987–2023)
One of Patrick Stewart’s most celebrated roles was Captain Jean-Luc Picard in the Star Trek franchise. He first appeared as the captain of the USS Enterprise in Star Trek: The Next Generation, which premiered in 1987.
His portrayal of Picard, a thoughtful and disciplined leader known for his intelligence, courage and sense of responsibility, became one of the defining performances of the science fiction franchise.
Stewart continued playing the character in several films and television appearances over the years. After an 18-year gap, he returned as Picard in the series Star Trek: Picard (2020–2023), which followed the character during his retirement.
Titles to watch:
- Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994)
- Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993, guest appearance)
- Star Trek Generations (1994)
- Star Trek: First Contact (1996)
- Star Trek: Insurrection (1998)
- Star Trek: Nemesis (2002)
- Star Trek: Picard (2020–2023)
2. X-Men franchise (2000–2026)
For an entire generation of superhero fans, Patrick Stewart will always be Professor Charles Xavier, popularly known as Professor X.
He made his debut as the powerful telepath and founder of the X-Men in the 2000 film X-Men. His character was known for believing in peaceful coexistence between humans and mutants and for guiding young mutants as they learned to understand their abilities.
Stewart shared the screen with Hugh Jackman, who played Wolverine, and Ian McKellen, who portrayed his complicated friend and rival, Magneto.
His performance continued across several instalments, including X2, X-Men: The Last Stand, X-Men: Days of Future Past and Logan. He also made appearances in The Wolverine, X-Men Origins: Wolverine and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
Titles to watch:
- X-Men (2000)
- X2 (2003)
- X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
- X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
- The Wolverine (2013)
- X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
- Logan (2017)
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
3. Dune (1984)
Before becoming a familiar face in the Star Trek and X-Men universes, Stewart appeared in David Lynch’s science fiction film Dune. Based on Frank Herbert’s celebrated novel, the film follows Paul Atreides and his journey through the dangerous desert planet of Arrakis.
Stewart played Gurney Halleck, a loyal warrior and weapons instructor who trains Paul and remains devoted to House Atreides. Although the film received mixed reviews upon its release, it gradually developed a cult following among science fiction enthusiasts.
It is an interesting watch for those who want to explore another side of Stewart’s early film career.
4. Green Room (2015)
Moving away from the fantasy and science fiction roles he was widely associated with, Stewart delivered a chilling performance in the thriller Green Room.
Directed by Jeremy Saulnier, the film follows a punk rock band that finds itself trapped inside a remote venue after witnessing a murder involving a group of neo-Nazi skinheads.
Stewart plays Darcy Banker, the calculating leader of the violent group. His restrained yet intimidating performance makes the character particularly unsettling.
The film also stars Anton Yelchin and is worth watching for those interested in seeing Stewart in a darker and more intense role.
5. L.A. Story (1991)
Not every memorable Patrick Stewart performance involved serious drama or action. He also displayed his comic side in the romantic comedy L.A. Story, written by and starring Steve Martin.
The film revolves around a Los Angeles television weatherman navigating his complicated love life and searching for meaning in his everyday existence.
Stewart appears as Mr Perdue, making a brief but memorable contribution to the film. His appearance is a reminder of his ability to move effortlessly between serious performances and light-hearted comedy.
6. Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993)
Patrick Stewart also made a memorable appearance in Mel Brooks’ comedy Robin Hood: Men in Tights.
A parody of the familiar Robin Hood legend, the film follows Robin as he returns to England and attempts to reclaim his family estate while standing up against the corrupt authorities.
Stewart appears as King Richard in a brief cameo. Although his screen time is limited, his appearance adds to the film’s humour and is a delightful example of his comic timing.
7. American Dad! (2005–present)
Fans who have mostly seen Stewart in serious roles might be surprised by his work in animation. The veteran actor voices Avery Bullock in the animated sitcom American Dad!. Bullock is the eccentric deputy director of the CIA and the boss of the show’s central character, Stan Smith.
Known for his unpredictable behaviour, unusual decisions and dry humour, Bullock is one of the show’s recurring characters.
Stewart’s distinctive voice and impeccable comic timing make this a particularly entertaining addition to his filmography.
8. Blunt Talk (2015–2016)
In the comedy series Blunt Talk, Stewart takes on the role of Walter Blunt, a British television journalist who moves to Los Angeles with ambitions of making it big in American cable news.
The series follows Blunt as he attempts to establish himself in the competitive television industry while dealing with his personal problems, complicated relationships and professional challenges.
The show offers viewers another opportunity to see Stewart’s comic side, this time playing a character from the world of journalism.
9. The Sheep Detectives (2026)
One of Patrick Stewart’s recent film performances was in the mystery comedy The Sheep Detectives, which features an ensemble voice cast.
Starring Hugh Jackman as shepherd George Hardy, the film follows a flock of sheep who become amateur detectives after a mysterious incident involving their shepherd.
Stewart lends his voice to Sir Ritchfield, one of the sheep in the flock. The film also features voices by Emma Thompson, Bryan Cranston, Regina Hall, Chris O’Dowd and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
It is a delightful addition to Stewart’s filmography and showcases yet another dimension of his talent as a voice actor.
10. Excalibur (1981)
For those interested in exploring Patrick Stewart’s earlier work, Excalibur is another film worth adding to the watchlist.
Directed by John Boorman, the fantasy film is based on the Arthurian legends and follows the story of King Arthur, the magical sword Excalibur and the knights of the Round Table.
Stewart plays Leondegrance, a nobleman associated with King Arthur’s court. Released in 1981, the film is among his notable early appearances on the big screen.
Patrick Stewart’s final on-screen appearance – Avengers: Doomsday
Although fans have seen Stewart play Professor Charles Xavier across several films, his journey as the beloved mutant mentor is not quite over.
The actor will make one final appearance as Professor X in Marvel Studios’ much-awaited Avengers: Doomsday. The film will also feature Ian McKellen returning as Magneto, bringing the two iconic characters together once again.
Marvel Studios confirmed that the upcoming film will mark Stewart’s final on-screen appearance. An early teaser featuring Xavier and Magneto sharing an emotional moment over a game of chess has already generated excitement among fans.
The film is scheduled to release in Indian theatres on December 17, 2026, ahead of its US release on December 18.
As audiences prepare to see him one last time in the role that became synonymous with his name, Stewart leaves behind a body of work that will continue to entertain generations of film and television lovers.
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