Patrick Stewart is a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, celebrated for his incredible talent and magnetic on-screen presence. With a career spanning over five decades, Stewart has made an indelible mark on both stage and screen with his versatile acting abilities and distinctive voice. Best known for his iconic role as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation, Stewart’s popularity soared, making him a household name worldwide.
But there is more to this British actor than meets the eye. In this article, we will explore 33 fascinating facts about Patrick Stewart that highlight his remarkable journey and the reasons for the world’s adoration. From his early life and theater beginnings to his philanthropy and lesser-known roles, get ready to discover the many facets of this beloved celebrity.
#1 Patrick began losing his hair while he was still a teenager.
He admitted to having a rather unfortunate comb-over and mentioned that he even altered his walk to avoid drawing attention to his hair.
“I wore hats all the time, caps, especially if it was windy.”
#2 Patrick thought he’d be fired from *Star Trek*.
“I can remember shooting the pilot and not knowing what I was doing. I didn’t know how to walk. I didn’t know how to wear my spacesuit or anything. I didn’t know what was going on. I am amazed they didn’t fire me.”
#3 He was once named the “Most Bodacious Man on TV,” which is truly iconic.
TV Guide bestowed this esteemed title upon the actor in 1992. When asked how he felt about the honor, Patrick joked that he wished he’d received the award when he was 19 years old.
#4 In fact, Patrick hoped to segue into comedy when he first began his acting career.
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#5 He’s still peeved about not being cast in the *Harry Potter* films.
“I always thought, when I became a professional, that I would just move into comedy,” Patrick stated. “But it never happened. I became this sort of, ugh, somber, dreary, kind of pompous figure.”
#6 He only drinks Earl Grey tea on very special occasions.
Unless you’re a Trekkie, you might not know that Earl Grey tea was the preferred drink of the USS Enterprise’s own Captain Jean-Luc Picard!
In real life, Sir Patrick prefers a brand called Yorkshire Gold.
#7 Patrick had a hilariously embarrassing *Star Trek* story.
One night, while Sir Patrick was alone in his hotel room, he was absent-mindedly flicking through the channels when he stumbled upon an old episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation.
#8 He dreamed of being a concert pianist.
Patrick once studied piano with classical pianist Emanuel Ax. He even mentioned that if he had to choose someone to trade places with, it would be him.
How cool is that?!
#9 He has his high school English teacher to thank for his acting career!
Patrick’s teacher, Cecil Dormand, once gave the now 80-year-old actor a copy of a Shakespearean play and instructed him to “get up on your feet and perform.”
#10 He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2010.
Patrick Stewart’s significant contributions to the arts were acknowledged with a knighthood, a thoroughly deserved honor.
#11 Stewart has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
His contributions to the world of entertainment have been immortalized in Hollywood history with this prestigious recognition.
#12 Stewart has appeared in multiple X-Men films as Professor Charles Xavier.
Portraying the wise and compassionate mutant leader, Patrick Stewart left an indelible mark on the X-Men franchise.
