This engaging autobiography tells the story of a life spent in the limelight.
Stewart, born in 1940, is best known for his role as a starship captain in Star Trek: The Next Generation. However, his career began much earlier on the London stage. Prior to his acclaimed performances in Shakespearean productions, he was a struggling drama student, and before that, a working-class boy from Yorkshire. He used reading as an escape from a difficult childhood, finding solace in the world of theatre where he could become someone else, living in a different place and time. Unable to afford the uniform for high school, he attended a less conventional school where he discovered acting classes. This led to apprenticeships, during which he was predicted to become a renowned character actor in 20 years.
As predicted, two decades later, Stewart was performing in stage productions and films, including David Lynch’s Dune. He humorously recounts a blunder with fellow Yorkshireman, Sting, whose band The Police he had never heard of. Stewart’s charm lies in his candidness, admitting that he was often oblivious to pop culture trends like the Beatles, despite becoming friends with Paul McCartney. McCartney once joked during a drink with Stewart and a bandmate, “Sir Ringo. Sir Patrick. Sir Paul. Hey—we’ve got the Knights of the bloody Round Table!”
Stewart’s memoir is filled with humor and humility. He graciously acknowledges the talented individuals he has worked with, including Vivien Leigh, Helen Mirren, Malcolm McDowell, and of course, the cast of Star Trek. Readers may wish for more insights into the craft of acting, as Stewart is a master of his trade, albeit a modest one.
