James McAvoy pays heartfelt tribute to Patrick Stewart

James McAvoy has shared an emotional tribute to legendary actor Patrick Stewart following the heartbreaking news of his death at the age of 86. The actor remembered his former co-star by sharing a collection of nostalgic photographs from their time working together on the popular X-Men film franchise.

McAvoy, best known for his roles in Split and the X-Men series, expressed his sadness through a heartfelt social media post. Alongside several throwback pictures featuring Stewart, the actor reflected on the privilege of sharing the screen with the veteran performer and described him as someone who had always treated him with kindness and respect.

Remembering their professional relationship, McAvoy highlighted how fortunate he felt to have worked alongside an actor he had admired long before becoming his colleague. He also shared a touching message, wishing Stewart well as he remembered their time together.

“Wherever you’re going, I know you’ll go boldly,” McAvoy wrote, paying tribute to the late star.

He continued by recalling his experiences working with Stewart on multiple occasions, describing the veteran actor as consistently kind and welcoming.

“I was lucky enough to work with Sir Patrick a number of times and he was always lovely to me,” he added.

McAvoy further explained that his admiration for Stewart began when he was simply a fan of his work. Getting the opportunity to eventually collaborate with him made the experience even more meaningful.

“First as a fan and then as a colleague, I count myself lucky to have gone with you for a short time,” he wrote.

The tribute quickly highlighted the special connection the two actors shared through one of the most successful superhero film franchises in Hollywood.

McAvoy and Stewart became closely associated with the character of Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men movies. While McAvoy portrayed the younger version of the powerful mutant leader, Stewart brought the older Professor X to life, becoming one of the franchise’s most recognisable characters.

Their portrayals represented different stages of the same character’s life, allowing audiences to explore Professor Xavier’s journey across different timelines. The actors also shared the screen in the science-fiction instalment X-Men: Days of Future Past, which brought together different generations of the franchise’s characters through its time-travel storyline.

Stewart’s portrayal of Professor X earned him widespread recognition and made him an important part of the X-Men universe. His performance, marked by wisdom, compassion and authority, remained a favourite among superhero movie fans for years.

The entertainment industry was left mourning on October 28 following reports of Stewart’s death at 86. The celebrated actor reportedly passed away at his home in Los Angeles after living with Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia.

His passing marks the loss of an influential performer whose career extended far beyond superhero films. Stewart was admired for his remarkable contribution to theatre, television and cinema, earning respect from audiences and fellow actors across generations.

Despite his extensive career, his portrayal of Professor Charles Xavier remains among his most memorable performances.

Stewart is also expected to appear in the upcoming Marvel film Avengers: Doomsday, directed by the Russo brothers and scheduled for release on December 18.

As tributes continue to emerge from across the entertainment industry, McAvoy’s emotional message serves as a reminder of the respect and admiration Stewart inspired among the people who had the opportunity to work alongside him.