Melissa Langley

“Star Trek” star Gates McFadden pays tribute to Patrick Stewart, praising his performance as Jean-Luc Picard for giving people hope around the world: “We want to believe in our leaders. Society suffers when we do not. If we fear retribution and feel there is no choice but to live in blind obedience to those in power, we lose our way. We lose belief in our institutions. Good leaders are those who urge us to step up and demand justice and truth. They spark our imaginations with their visions of a better future. They educate us. Without a belief in the basic goodness of our leaders, we lose faith in ourselves and our collective future. Our standards and principles take a dive. A leader is also great when they understand sacrifice and responsibility. This is why, I believe, people tune into ‘Star Trek’ or listen to Shakespeare, music or art of any kind. We are searching for hope and elevation from the daily numbness or despair. A desire to do good in the world works better with both kindness and focus — and it works better when we are surrounded by art and invention that lifts us. Jean-Luc Picard embodied that ideal. Patrick’s death means the loss of Picard, which for some hurts even more than the loss of Patrick Stewart. Jean-Luc gave us hope.” wp.me/pc8uak-1lI3RD

'Star Trek' Star Gates McFadden Pays Tribute to Patrick Stewart: His Portrayal of Jean-Luc Picard Gave People Hope Around the World variety.com/2026/tv/obituari…