# Patrick Stewart’s Hidden Shakespearean Role in Star Trek: TNG
**Star Trek: The Next Generation** gave us one of the most iconic captains in sci-fi history—Jean-Luc Picard, played by the legendary **Patrick Stewart**. But did you know that Stewart once disguised himself under heavy makeup to play a **Shakespearean character** on the show?
## The Episode You Might Have Missed
In **Season 3, Episode 3, titled “The Survivors,”** Stewart took on a dual role. While he still played Captain Picard, he also portrayed **Kevin Uxbridge**, a mysterious survivor on a devastated planet.
### A Shakespearean Twist
Stewart, a classically trained Shakespearean actor, infused **Kevin Uxbridge** with a tragic, theatrical presence. The character was revealed to be a **god-like being** who had wiped out an entire civilization in a fit of grief—a storyline reminiscent of classic **Greek and Shakespearean tragedies**.
## Why This Performance Stands Out
– **Stewart’s Range** – Playing both Picard and Uxbridge in the same episode showcased his incredible acting versatility.
– **Hidden in Plain Sight** – The heavy makeup made it easy to miss that it was Stewart under the prosthetics.
– **Shakespearean Influence** – The character’s monologues and emotional depth mirrored the dramatic roles Stewart performed on stage.
### A Nod to Stewart’s Theater Roots
Before **Star Trek**, Stewart was best known for his work with the **Royal Shakespeare Company**. His portrayal of Uxbridge allowed him to bring that dramatic intensity to sci-fi—proving that even in a futuristic setting, **classic storytelling** shines through.
## Did You Recognize Him?
Many fans didn’t realize it was Stewart at first. The makeup and voice modulation made Uxbridge seem like a completely different actor. But looking back, the **gravitas and eloquence** are unmistakably Stewart’s.
### Final Thoughts
Patrick Stewart’s performance as Kevin Uxbridge is a hidden gem in **TNG’s** history. It’s a perfect example of how **science fiction and classic theater** can blend seamlessly, especially when an actor of Stewart’s caliber is involved.
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### Opinion: Why This Matters
Patrick Stewart’s ability to disappear into a role—even under heavy makeup—shows why he’s one of the greatest actors of his generation. **”The Survivors”** isn’t just a great **Star Trek** episode; it’s a masterclass in acting. Stewart’s Shakespearean roots elevated the story, making it one of the most emotionally powerful episodes of **TNG**. If you haven’t seen it, it’s worth revisiting—just to appreciate the depth he brought to both roles.
