Patrick Stewart, the Royal Shakespeare Company-trained actor whose Shakespearean technique and distinctive voice made him a commanding presence in film and television, has died at age 86.
Stewart rose to international stardom playing Jean-Luc Picard, captain of the USS Enterprise in "Star Trek: The Next Generation," which ran from 1987 to 1994. The role launched him from classical theatre into pop culture prominence. He later played Charles Xavier in the X-Men films.
Before his screen breakthrough, Stewart had appeared in prestigious television productions, including "I, Claudius," where he played Sejanus opposite Derek Jacobi. His Shakespearean training gave him a distinctive approach to acting that set him apart in Hollywood.