- Patrick Stewart confesses to being difficult to work with during the first season of Star Trek: The Next Generation
- Stewart shares an experience where co-star LeVar Burton taught him how to have fun on set
- He credits the cast for creating a positive environment and helping him change for the better
In a candid admission, Patrick Stewart, the renowned actor who portrayed Captain Jean-Luc Picard in the hit sci-fi series Star Trek: The Next Generation, acknowledged that he had been a “severe bastard” to his co-stars during the show’s first season.
Stewart revealed that during production, he was constantly serious, professional, and dedicated to his role. Although his perfectionist attitude was noticed by the rest of the cast, it may have been a little too overbearing. He shared an anecdote where his co-star LeVar Burton, who played Geordi LaForge on the show, confronted him about his behavior.
According to Stewart, Burton approached him during a break and said, “You need to lighten up,” explaining that the set needed to be a place where everyone could “feel relaxed and free to have fun” while working together. It was then that Stewart realized he was not contributing positively to the working environment.
The actor credited his fellow cast members for showing him how to not only accept but also enjoy the “play” element during the overall creative process of filming the series. He recognized that they made him understand the importance of creating a positive atmosphere where all cast members could feel comfortable and have fun.
Stewart’s reflection on his past behavior and growth demonstrates the power of camaraderie and constructive communication amongst a team. The simple act of a co-star addressing the issue turned things around and ultimately led the actor to be more open, fun, and supportive on set.