Ars Technica staff members Jason Merlin and Nick Inge remember Sir Patrick Stewart for the performances and qualities that made him an enduring presence in science fiction, theater, film, and television. They recall his defining role as Jean-Luc Picard, his portrayal of Professor X, his work on A Christmas Carol, and the Shakespeare readings that brought comfort during the coronavirus lockdowns.
Remembering Sir Patrick Stewart
“Goodbye, Sir Patrick. You have given us so much. Thank you.”
Jason Merlin, Technical Director
Like many members of Generation X, I grew up loving the original Star Trek series. But Star Trek: The Next Generation held a special place in my heart. From its premiere, I was captivated by the thoughtful, emotional concepts it explored. Jean-Luc Picard quickly became one of my favorite characters. I admired his intelligence, leadership, and moral integrity. He was the quintessential Starfleet captain, and he made baldness look cool in a way only Michael Jordan could match.
Years later, I discovered my favorite Patrick Stewart performance: his terrifying portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge on Broadway and in the 1999 film adaptation of A Christmas Carol.
For me, this film is the definitive version of the Dickens classic, and watching it has become a cherished family holiday tradition. During the coronavirus lockdown, we listened intently to Stewart’s Shakespeare readings and, of course, his multipart Shakespearean solo performances and A Christmas Carol. With a roaring fire, hot drinks, and his perfect Shakespearean accent, all seemed right with the world.
Sir Patrick Stewart will be greatly missed by the Merlin family.
Nick Inge, Senior Technology Reporter
As someone who was raised by Britons in America, there was something quietly thrilling about watching a Yorkshireman take the captain’s chair. Even better, The Next Generation was, in my parents’ eyes, proof that science fiction could be serious: a classically trained Shakespearean actor would not participate in anything unserious.
When I came of age in 2000, Stewart was there again as Professor X. Of course he was. Who else could have played the role? But beyond the character, he really seemed to be a good guy—the kind of person with a Mister Rogers and “Weird Al” layer.
And when the world turned upside down during the coronavirus pandemic, he was there, reading sonnets to me every day.
Source: arstechnica.com
