‘I’m getting close, very close’: Patrick Stewart’s haunting reflection on mortality, shared 3 years before his death, takes on new meaning now

Patrick Stewart’s reflections on death and the possibility of an afterlife have taken on a deeply poignant meaning following his passing at 86. The Star Trek and X-Men actor died at his Los Angeles home, surrounded by family and friends. In an interview recorded when he was 83, Stewart spoke candidly about his own mortality, wondering whether he was ready for the end of life. His words, particularly his admission that he was “getting close, very close”, have now resurfaced following the news of his death.

Patrick Stewart spoke about death as he grew older

During the interview, Rachel Martin of Virginia's Home for Public Media (VPM) had asked Stewart whether his belief in transcendence and spirits extended to the possibility of an afterlife. She also asked what he thought happened after death.

Stewart had then admitted that he did not know what followed this life, but he had a "deep and acute feeling" that there was more to existence. He added that he preferred to look at death differently instead of fearing it. He further described it as a "closure of a chapter, not the end of existence". He had added that, as he grew older, he had begun thinking more about his own mortality, but without feeling depressed or despairing. Instead, he found himself asking whether he was ready.


When Martin asked if he was close to reaching that point, Stewart replied, “I'm getting close, very close.” He also revealed that he was experiencing happiness with an intensity he had never felt before.

Patrick Stewart's family announces his death

Stewart's estate announced his passing through his official social media account. The statement said he died at home in Los Angeles in the loving care of his wife, Sunny, following a brief journey with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia.

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The statement also recalled how he spent his final moments surrounded by loved ones, with live music, prayers, tears and laughter. It described the actor's peaceful expression as a lasting reminder of his grace. He is survived by his third wife, singer Sunny Ozell, and his children Daniel and Sophia from his first marriage to actor Sheila Falconer.