Let me tell you something that really struck me. Remember Patrick Stewart's iconic role as Capt. Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek? He once said, "We are who we are, and we're doing the best we can. It is not for you to set the standards by which we should be judged!" That's some powerful stuff. Yet, for years, this very same man lived in fear of being judged for not stepping in to help his mother when he was a child. His alcoholic father would beat her, and Patrick carried the weight of that experience with him for decades. "One of the problems of domestic violence is the shame attached to it," Patrick explains. "It affects everyone—the victim, the abuser, and the children too."
A young Patrick with his mother.
A Glimpse Into Patrick Stewart's Past
Born in 1940, Patrick Stewart didn’t meet his father, Alfred, until after he returned from serving in World War II. "What I only learned a few years ago is that he had suffered what the newspapers described as severe shell shock," Patrick reveals. "Of course, he was never treated for it—what we now call PTSD." His father worked as a semi-skilled laborer, holding down a job during the week, but would drink heavily on weekends. While Alfred never raised a hand to his sons, Patrick's mother was not so fortunate. "We became experts in something children should never have to deal with," Patrick shares. "Listening to an argument and judging when it would transform into violence." Imagine that. A child having to navigate such a volatile home environment. It’s heartbreaking.
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Breaking the Cycle of Violence
Today, Patrick is determined to break the cycle of violence he witnessed as a child. He’s supporting a bill in the UK aimed at helping victims of domestic abuse. "Unlike my time, there is aid available now," Patrick says. "There are 24-hour helplines. Call one—you need not be alone." It’s inspiring to see someone who has faced such challenges use their voice to advocate for others. Patrick’s story is a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there’s hope for change and healing.
Where to Learn More
For more on Patrick Stewart’s journey and his advocacy work, pick up the latest issue of Closer Weekly, available on newsstands now. And don’t forget to sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on all the latest news.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please reach out for help. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org.
