Stewart & McKellen: A Friendship for the Ages

Sir Ian McKellen has honored the memory of his dear friend, the acclaimed actor Patrick Stewart, who passed away at the age of 86. Stewart's death followed a "brief and poignant journey" with Lewy body dementia and Alzheimer's. McKellen shared a heartfelt tribute reflecting on their decades-long friendship, which began when they were ambitious young actors with the Royal Shakespeare Company in the 1970s.

The two forged a significant bond while filming the "X-Men" franchise, where Stewart played Professor Charles Xavier and McKellen portrayed Magneto. They discovered a wealth of common interests during their time on set. Beyond their on-screen collaborations, McKellen also served as the officiant for Stewart's wedding to Sunny Ozell, notably performing the ceremony twice to ensure its validity.

Stewart, who made America his home, was remembered by McKellen as a proud Yorkshireman, a quality reflected in his honest demeanor and unwavering principles. Their friendship was characterized by mutual affection and support, including public displays of camaraderie and shared stage performances in plays like "Waiting for Godot" and "No Man's Land."