Gates McFadden recalls Patrick Stewart's final hours and legacy
The 'Star Trek' co-star detailed how Stewart died in the arms of his wife on Oct. 28 and how his portrayal of Picard influenced global views on leadership.
By Michael Collins ·
Patrick Stewart died in the arms of his wife, Sunny Ozell, on Oct. 28. Gates McFadden, who played Dr. Beverly Crusher in the 'Star Trek' franchise, described the setting of his death as fitting. McFadden stated that Stewart would have preferred to die in the arms of his beloved partner. She noted that the actor loved the theater more than anything else and often imagined him dying on stage during a performance.
McFadden drew a parallel to the French playwright Molière, who died during a scene in 'The Imaginary Invalid' in front of an audience. The audience initially laughed at Molière's coughing fit before realizing the gravity of the moment. McFadden suggested that Stewart might have enjoyed a similar dramatic ending, perhaps in 'A Christmas Carol' or as Shylock in 'The Merchant of Venice.' She identified her performance of Shylock as a favorite of his onstage work and expressed a desire to have seen him one final time before he passed.
The actor's death triggered thousands of online tributes from fans around the world. McFadden observed that Stewart's influence extended beyond his roles to his public behavior. She described him as a leader who cared deeply about the ethics of his speech. McFadden argued that the character of Jean-Luc Picard stood in contrast to many contemporary leaders. Stewart brought intellect and seriousness to the role, which resonated with a global audience seeking principled figures.
McFadden explained that people follow leaders who demonstrate fairness and righteousness. She stated that such figures give hope and inspire belief in solutions to difficult problems. While the vision of 'Star Trek' originated from Gene Roddenberry and the production team, Stewart fulfilled that dream through his performance and public presence. McFadden said Stewart understood the human need for heroes who can educate and spark imagination.
McFadden emphasized that society loses its way when leaders are feared rather than respected. She argued that good leaders urge people to demand justice and truth. This belief in basic goodness allows standards and principles to remain strong. Without it, people lose faith in institutions and their collective future. Stewart's character embodied this ideal, and McFadden noted that the loss of Picard often hurts fans even more than the loss of Stewart himself.
McFadden worked opposite Stewart for decades in the 'Star Trek' universe. Her roles included all but the second season of 'Star Trek: The Next Generation.' She also appeared in the films 'Star Trek Generations,' 'Star Trek: First Contact,' 'Star Trek: Insurrection,' and 'Star Trek: Nemesis.' McFadden joined the cast for the third season of 'Star Trek: Picard' and made cameo appearances in 'Star Trek: Prodigy.' Her comments serve as a professional and personal reflection on the actor who captivated audiences for over thirty years.
Source: Variety
