Inside Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart’s Decades-Long Friendship

Sir Patrick Stewart, the celebrated British actor, passed away at the age of 86 on 28th October 2023, prompting an outpouring of tributes from friends, fans, and fellow performers, including his longtime friend and collaborator, Sir Ian McKellen. The enduring friendship between the two men, forged in the early days of their careers, is highlighted by their time spent together both on stage and in the film industry.

Stewart and McKellen’s connection stretches back to their days at the Royal Shakespeare Company in the 1970s. Although they initially did not feature in the same productions, the profound respect they held for each other became evident as their careers progressed. Sir Ian, aged 87, expressed his grief through a heartfelt message, recalling how Stewart had been a man of open emotion, a companion to depend upon, and someone who inspired love. McKellen reflected on their first significant encounter, where he urged Stewart to consider the potential risks of pursuing a Hollywood career after he received an offer for a role in “Star Trek”. In hindsight, McKellen recognised the decision’s importance, expressing gratitude for Stewart’s bold choice to embrace the Hollywood path.

Prominent to their shared legacy is their collaboration in the “X-Men” franchise. Stewart became widely celebrated for his portrayal of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in “Star Trek”, later transitioning to the role of Professor X, alongside McKellen’s iconic portrayal of Magneto in the “X-Men” films, which began in 2000. Their camaraderie was not limited to the screen; they also brought their talents to the theatre, most notably in a West End production of Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot” and on Broadway in a 2013 double bill that included Harold Pinter’s “No Man’s Land”.

The two men were not just colleagues but shared a close personal bond, frequently displaying their affection publicly. McKellen even officiated Stewart’s wedding to Sunny Ozell in 2013, at a ceremony in Lake Tahoe. Though McKellen’s credentials to perform weddings were not valid in Nevada, Stewart jokingly revealed that the couple had legally tied the knot at a Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles days before the ceremony. This anecdote is just one of many that reflect their fun-loving friendship.

Both actors received acclaim not only for their performances but also for their contributions to the arts at large. They were knighted by the late Queen Elizabeth II, with Stewart receiving his honour in 2010, and McKellen being knighted in 1991. Their roles in “X-Men” continued well into the latest iteration of the Marvel cinematic universe, featuring in “Avengers: Doomsday,” which is scheduled for release on 18th December 2023.

Colleagues from the Marvel franchise such as Anthony Mackie have shared sentiments on the unique dynamic between the two actors. Mackie recalled how their conversations seemed to captivate everyone around them, highlighting the respect and history they shared over decades. Another co-star, Simu Liu, expressed his awe at the opportunity to work with such iconic figures, noting how star-struck he felt in their presence.

As tributes continue to pour in for Stewart, the legacy he leaves behind is one marked by friendship, collaboration, and an indelible impact on the performing arts. Stewart’s death signifies not just the loss of a talented actor, but also the end of an era for those who admired the deep connection he shared with his colleagues, particularly with McKellen.

Survived by his wife, Sunny Ozell, Stewart’s passing comes as a significant loss to many who knew him as an actor, a friend, and a cherished public figure. Events from their extraordinary friendship and collaborative spirit will likely resonate in the hearts and memories of those touched by their work for many years to come.