Star Trek and X-Men actor Sir Patrick Stewart dies

Star Trek and X-Men actor Sir Patrick Stewart has died after a "brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer's".

The 86-year-old died at his home in Los Angeles on Wednesday, said a statement on his Instagram account.

It said he died "in the loving care of his beloved wife Sunny, following a brief and poignant journey with Alzheimer's Disease and Lewy Body Dementia".

The West Yorkshire actor rose to global fame for playing Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation in 1987, which ran for seven years.

He also appeared in the films Star Trek Generations in 1994 and Star Trek: First Contact in 1996.

Sir Patrick recently appeared in a trailer for the highly anticipated Avengers: Doomsday film, set to be released in December, reprising his role of Professor Charles Xavier.

Marvel Studios called him "a singular talent, a generous collaborator, and a true gentleman".

It said he brought the character to life with "extraordinary grace, intelligence, and humanity, defining the character for generations of fans".

Stewart's family said he was surrounded by "live music, prayer, tears, laughter" during his illness.

"We will forever cherish the peaceful ease and reflection on his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grave," a statement said.

His family also paid tribute to his time with the Royal Shakespeare Company and appearing on Broadway in his early days.

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