Ian McKellen Pays Tribute to Late Friend Patrick Stewart: 'A Man to Rely On, to Admire and Love' — Music

Sir Ian McKellen has honored his longtime friend and colleague Patrick Stewart following the actor's death at age 86. In a heartfelt social media post, McKellen recalled their half-century friendship, Stewart's Yorkshire roots, and his dual success in Hollywood blockbusters and classical theater.

Sir Ian McKellen has paid tribute to his close friend and fellow English actor Patrick Stewart, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86. In a public remembrance, McKellen addressed his late colleague as "Sir Patrick Stewart," acknowledging the honors Stewart received throughout his career, including an OBE in 2001 and a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II in 2010 for his contributions to the arts.

McKellen reflected on their shared history, noting that they first met as young actors with the Royal Shakespeare Company approximately half a century ago. He highlighted Stewart's deep connection to his origins in Yorkshire, describing him as a man defined by the proud northern county he loved until the end. According to McKellen, Stewart's Yorkshire heritage was evident in his accented voice and his stern honesty, traits that made him a person of reliability and admiration.

The actor recalled a specific memory from a few years after their initial meeting, when they crossed paths on a street in central London. At that time, Stewart informed McKellen about an offer to take over a leading role in "Star Trek." McKellen admitted he initially questioned whether Stewart should risk leaving the stage for Hollywood, but expressed gratitude that his friend took the chance. This decision allowed Stewart to achieve international celebrity while continuing to star in cinema successes like the "X-Men" franchise and performing in classical plays by Shakespeare, Ibsen, Miller, Shaffer, Pinter, and Beckett across Stratford-upon-Avon, London's West End, and Broadway.

Although America became Stewart's adopted home, where he met his wife, singer Sunny Ozell, McKellen emphasized that the actor never forsook his roots. He noted that Stewart's proudest achievement was his appointment as Chancellor of the University of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire, accompanying his tribute with a photo taken by the institution.

The friendship between the two actors has long been celebrated in Hollywood, particularly after they were cast as Professor Xavier and Magneto respectively in the "X-Men" film series starting in 2000. Their professional bond extended to the stage, where they notably performed together in "Waiting for Godot" in both 2009 and 2014. Reflecting on Stewart's impact in a 2023 statement, McKellen remarked that being around him was like being with the pope, noting that while people did not genuflect, Stewart had touched countless lives.

Sources: Rolling Stone.