Patrick Stewart said saying goodbye after Star Trek: Nemesis was both “agonizing” and “terrifying”

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As a devoted Star Trek fan, I can’t help but feel a deep connection to the cast of The Next Generation, particularly Patrick Stewart and his emotional farewell in the making of Star Trek: Nemesis. His heartfelt words resonate with me, as I too felt a sense of loss when filming wrapped up for what seemed like the last time.

Saying goodbye is always a challenge, especially when the people you’re bidding farewell have grown to be like family. This sentiment held true for the Star Trek: The Next Generation cast, particularly after completing filming for Star Trek: Nemesis. For Patrick Stewart, who portrayed Captain Jean-Luc Picard since 1987 alongside Jonathan Frakes, Marina Sirtis, Michael Dorn, Brent Spiner, LeVar Burton, Gates McFadden, and Wil Wheaton, acknowledging that Nemesis marked the end of their journey together was an emotional experience.

In “The Fifty-Year Mission: The Next 25 Years” by Mark A. Altman and Edward Gross, as recounted on Gamerant, the last moments for Stewart were emotionally charged. He was bidding farewell to a cherished character and his colleagues, causing him to become deeply moved. Consequently, Stewart lost control of his emotions and wept in Johnathan Frakes’ embrace.

I will say that at the end of the film, I’m saying goodbye to Riker and I found myself completely caught up in the moment. I broke down. Out of the clear blue sky, my emotions overwhelmed me. I collapsed in Jonathan’s arms and felt such a fool. The entire crew watched me cry and then started muttering, ‘What’s going on? Has he been drinking or something?’ But in that moment, absolutely everything coalesced—the feelings that I had for these people over the years. Saying goodbye was absolutely terrifying and agonizing for me.

Patrick Stewart

In 2019, Stewart found himself back in the role of Captain Picard for the debut of Star Trek: Picard, an unexpected turn of events for him. At that moment, it seemed like the conclusion of a significant chapter, and for viewers, it resonated similarly. As the end credits played during Star Trek: Nemesis, a film that fell short of expectations for many, it was hard to accept that this would be our last time witnessing The Next Generation crew united on screen.

I’m thrilled that Star Trek: Picard brought back the whole crew in its final season for an incredible journey of ten episodes. It felt like a dream come true for me as a fan and a gamer, reliving the magic of The Next Generation. The camaraderie between them was palpable and left us craving for more. Although Patrick Stewart wasn’t ready to bid farewell in 2002, we fans sure aren’t willing to let go in 2023.

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2024-07-15 04:23