10/30/2026
This one hurts a lot. Like most of us "colonials," I believe I first discovered Sir Pat thru Star Trek: The Next Generation, though I would bet I saw him in passing first in Lifeforce or Excalibur. But his portrayal of Jean-Luc Picard was iconic with its blend of charisma, intellect, and above all compassion. Later on I would see him in many roles and always be amazed at his range and depth, and off stage he was a magnificent human, donating his time, energy, and resources to such causes as veterans' PTSD, domestic abuse, gay/trans rights, and dog rescue. The old adage is "Never meet your heroes" - I never had the opportunity to meet him, but by all accounts (and the tremendous outpouring of condolences, respect, and fond memories) he was an absolutely magnificent human.
"Our revels now are ended. These our actors, as I foretold you, were all spirits and are melted into air, into thin air." — The Tempest (Act IV, Scene I)
