“Saturday Night Live” honored Patrick Stewart with an emotional tribute days after he died at the age of 86.
The comedy show shared a throwback video of the late “Star Trek” star hosting the show back in 1994 and enthusiastically introducing musical guests Salt-N-Pepa.
A refurfaced promo photo from the actor’s gig then popped up on the screen.
Stewart passed away at his Los Angeles home on Wednesday after a short battle with Alzheimer’s Disease and Lewy body dementia, his rep announced.
Mayo Clinic defines Lewy body dementia as “the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease,” which “causes a decline in mental abilities that gradually gets worse over time.”
The “Logan” star was being cared for by his wife, Sunny Ozell, 47, when he died.
“He has been held in the warm embrace of family and friends, surrounded by live music, prayer, tears, laughter, and the kind of profound emotion that only he could inspire after a lifetime of devotion to us all,” his rep said.
“We will forever cherish the peaceful ease and reflection on his face, an enduring reminder of his invincible grace.”
Marvel Studios also mourned Stewart ahead of the release of his last film, “Doomsday,” this upcoming December.
“Marvel Studios is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Sir Patrick Stewart, the legendary English actor who brought Professor Charles Xavier to life,” the statement read, referring to the actor’s role as Professor Charles Xavier in “X-Men” and the superhero franchise.
“For more than 25 years, he brought a gravitas and profundity to the role, earning fans across the globe and helping to transform Super Hero storytelling forever.”
The network also highlighted the many movies Stewart starred in as Professor X since the first “X-Men” was released in 2000.
Hugh Jackman and Famke Janssen, who portrayed Wolverine and Jean Grey, respectively, in the “X-Men” franchise, were also among the many who paid tribute.
In a final interview, Stewart declared that he would “never” retire during an interview with TV Insider in July.
“As any actor my age will tell you, there are fewer and fewer available roles as we get older,” he said. “I still continue to receive interesting offers and I love being challenged by new work,” Stewart said. “I can’t imagine ever officially ‘retiring.’ I’ll always and forever be an actor.”
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