Hugh Jackman pays an emotional tribute to X-Men co-star Sir Patrick Stewart following his death
Hugh Jackman has paid an emotional tribute to his X-Men co-star Sir Patrick Stewart following the legendary actor's death, describing him as a 'tremendous friend and man'.
The Wolverine frontman shared a heartfelt message alongside photographs of the pair together, admitting he had learned so much from Stewart and would miss him for the rest of his days.
British movie star Stewart died on Wednesday (28 October), aged 86, at his home in Los Angeles, surrounded by his loved ones.
His death was announced the following day in a statement shared on his social media accounts by his longtime spokesperson, Kelly Bush Novak.
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The message confirmed that the actor had died following a 'brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia', with his loving wife, Sunny, by his side.
It also paid tribute to the support he received from those closest to him, revealing that he had been surrounded by 'live music, prayer, tears, laughter' during his final days.
"We will forever cherish the peaceful ease and reflection on his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grace," the message went on.
Stewart was best known for playing Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men franchise.
It was his work on the latter that saw him form a tight-knit bond with Australian star Jackman, who famously portrayed Wolverine across several instalments of the superhero hit.
Taking to Instagram following the heartbreaking news, Jackman shared two photographs of himself with Stewart, including one which showed the pair tightly embracing.
"We lost one of the greats of stage and screen today," the 58-year-old began. "And, in my book, a tremendous friend and man."
Jackman went on to reflect on the influence his co-star had on him, adding: "I learned so much from him. I will miss you, Patrick Stewart, all of my days."
Hugh and Patrick first appeared together all the way back in 2000's X-Men, going on to reunite in several films, including X-Men: The Last Stand, The Wolverine and Logan.
Their characters, Wolverine and Professor X, shared a particularly special relationship, with their final appearance together in 2017's Logan proving an emotional moment for fans.
And Jackman was far from the only member of the X-Men family to honour the late actor.
Sir Ian McKellen, who played Magneto alongside Patrick's Professor X, also shared a deeply personal tribute, remembering his longtime friend for his Yorkshire roots, honesty and warmth.
Reflecting on their friendship, Ian described Patrick as someone who 'wore his heart on his sleeve', adding that this made him a man to rely on, admire and, in his own words, love.
"America was his adopted home, where he met his adored Sunny who has cared for him through sickness and health, through thick and thin," McKellen penned. "But he never forsook his origins: and the proudest achievement of the most respected and beloved actor of his generation on either side of the Atlantic, was his appointment as Chancellor of Huddersfield University in Yorkshire."
Rebecca Romijn, who portrayed Mystique in the original X-Men films, also remembered her former co-star, revealing how grateful she was to have known him for 25 years.
In a video tribute, she recalled his mischievous sense of humour, booming voice and infectious personality, describing him as an inspiration and saying she would miss her friend dearly.
Marvel Studios also released a statement honouring Stewart, praising the 'extraordinary grace, intelligence, and humanity' he brought to Professor Charles Xavier.
The studio added that he was a 'singular talent, a generous collaborator, and a true gentleman', sending its condolences to his wife Sunny, his children and everyone whose lives he touched.
Topics: Celebrity, TV And Film, Hugh Jackman, Entertainment, UK News
Rhianna Benson