X-Men stars honor Patrick Stewart at gala celebrating his legacy

Ian McKellen, Hugh Jackman, Rebecca Romijn and Famke Janssen gathered on the red carpet of the Hollywood Reporter’s annual tribute gala on June 12 to salute fellow “mutant” Patrick Stewart, calling him “one of the greats” as he marked two decades since first appearing as Professor Charles Xavier. The quartet, all alumni of the X‑Men franchise, presented Stewart with a custom‑made crystal X‑Men emblem and shared brief remarks about his influence on the series and on their own careers.

Stewart originated the role of Professor X in Bryan Singer’s 2000 X‑Men, a performance that helped launch the modern superhero film era. Over the next fifteen films he became the moral centre of a franchise that grew from modest box‑office hits into a multi‑billion‑dollar empire. The tribute comes as Stewart, now 84, has stepped back from the role following health concerns and a public announcement in 2022 that he is living with Parkinson’s disease. Fans and colleagues alike have been eager to recognize his contributions as the franchise prepares for a new wave of rebooted stories and a possible return of the character to the big screen.

Jackman, who played Wolverine for two decades, said Stewart’s “quiet strength and compassion shaped the world of the X‑Men and taught us all a lesson in leadership.” McKellen, who portrayed Magneto opposite Stewart’s Professor X, added that the actor’s “intellectual fire and kindness off‑screen made every set feel like a family.” Romijn and Janssen echoed the sentiment, noting that Stewart’s mentorship helped them navigate the pressures of blockbuster filmmaking. Their comments were met with applause and a standing ovation from an audience that included directors, producers and long‑time fans.

While no official confirmation has been made, industry insiders suggest Stewart could reappear as Professor X in future Marvel‑related projects, a move that would bridge the Fox‑owned X‑Men universe with the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe. The next X‑Men film, slated for release in 2025, is expected to introduce a new generation of mutants, and Stewart’s cameo would provide a symbolic passing of the torch. For now, the tribute serves as a reminder of his lasting impact and leaves the door open for a possible final bow in the ever‑expanding world of superheroes.