Friends and colleagues from the Star Trek franchise have taken to social media to honor Sir Patrick Stewart, the actor who portrayed Captain Jean-Luc Picard. Stewart passed away at the age of 86 following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
William Shatner, who originated the role of Captain James T. Kirk, shared his grief on Facebook. Shatner noted the recent passing of Walter Koenig, who played Pavel Chekov, and reflected on Stewart's contributions. "Sir Patrick Stewart was a friend, a colleague, and a magnificent actor," Shatner wrote. "From the stage to the bridge of the Enterprise, he brought intelligence, grace, and a deep sense of humanity to everything he did. Captain Picard stood for the best of us, and so did the man who played him. I was filled with affection and admiration for him and his work."
George Takei, known for his role as Hikaru Sulu, posted on Bluesky, stating, "Fans across the world mourn the passing of a true and irreplaceable legend. As Captain Jean-Luc Picard, Patrick Stewart took the starship Enterprise to places it had never gone before. He inspired a whole next generation of star-gazers who looked longingly ahead to a brighter future for all humanity."
Stewart's co-stars from Star Trek: The Next Generation also shared their remembrances. Jonathan Frakes, who played William Riker, posted on Instagram, "Rest in peace, my friend." Will Wheaton, who portrayed Wesley Crusher, shared a photograph of himself with Stewart, writing, "Godspeed, Captain."
Akiva Goldsman, co-showrunner and co-creator of Star Trek: Picard, posted on X, "Safe Journey Dear Friend." In a statement to Variety, Goldsman expanded on his sentiments: "Patrick was not only a true lion of the profession, he was the rarest of alchemists, one who could literally turn the written word into flesh and blood. Patrick was kind, strong, fiercely intelligent, collaborative, vulnerable and wise. His Captain Jean-Luc Picard permanently expanded the universe of Star Trek without measure."
Jeri Ryan, who starred as Seven of Nine in Star Trek: Picard, posted on Threads, "Ouch. This hurts. Rest well, Patrick."
Terry Matalas, the showrunner for Picard, shared a photo of Stewart smiling, writing, "Oh Captain, my Captain. This is how I’ll always remember you…"
Robert Picardo, who played the Doctor on Star Trek: Voyager, also offered his condolences, writing, "Too much tragedy. Rest in peace, captain."