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Patrick Stewartwife, Sunny Ozellplayed an interesting role in one of the famous actor’s most meaningful projects before his death at 86.
Although the “Star Trek” icon spent decades captivating audiences on screen and stage, a simple suggestion from his wife during the COVID-19 pandemic introduced him to an unexpected new audience.
After Patrick Stewart’s death on October 28, the story behind Sunny’s heartfelt request has resurfaced, revealing how a private moment between the couple became a lasting gift to Shakespeare lovers around the world.
One simple request from Patrick Stewart’s wife changed his life
Stewart previously revealed how his wife encouraged him to start sharing daily performances of William Shakespeare’s sonnets during the pandemic. In a December 2023 interview with the Washington Post, the actor recalled walking with Ozell when he independently began reciting Shakespeare.
According to Stewart, lines from the playwright’s work would often pop into his mind, prompting him to speak them out. His wife was impressed by the immediate performance and suggested recording.
After watching the film, Ozell encouraged him to share the recording online, believing that others could hear his unique voice bringing Shakespeare’s words to life.
The response exceeded their expectations. Stewart recalled that the video attracted a lot of attention, which led Sunny to propose something more ambitious.
She suggested that he record a different sonnet every day to help people deal with the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic. The actor unknowingly agreed to start a project that would eventually become one of his most personal creative achievements.
The actor revealed how Sunny Ozell turned a private moment into a global sensation
Stewart shared another memory of how the project began in an April 2026 interview with the Folger Shakespeare Library. This time, he remembered reciting Sonnet 116 to Grianach over dinner in the early stages of the pandemic.
He explained that several of his wife’s musical friends had started sharing performances online while people were confined to their homes.
Inspired by their example, Ozell suggested that her husband do something similar to Shakespeare’s poetry. “What inspired you to create this audio track?” asked the publication.
Stewart gave credit to his wife, explaining that she believed that daily concerts could bring comfort to the audience at a very difficult time. The recordings soon became a regular activity for the pair, with Stewart eventually performing all 154 sonnets.
He later described the experience as a source of tremendous pride. The project allowed fans to get to know a more intimate side of the actor, far away from his famous Hollywood characters.
Patrick Stewart’s Heart Project became one of the final achievements of his career
What started as an informal lock activity turned into a professionally recorded audio book. In April 2026, Stewart released “Patrick Stewart Performs the Complete Sonnets of William Shakespeare,” featuring new readings of all 154 poems along with his personal reflections.
Speaking to the Folger Shakespeare Library, the actor explained that his aim is to make Shakespeare’s poetry accessible to audiences who might otherwise find the language intimidating.
He wanted listeners to feel that they were being spoken to directly. Stewart also revealed that Sonnet 116 is his personal favorite because of its powerful message of enduring love.
The celebration of the poem about unstoppable love was especially important because Sunny was involved in the project. In October, Stewart announced on Instagram that the audiobook had been submitted for Grammy consideration. However, he died before the nominations were announced.
The ‘Star Trek’ legend that was previously revealed about his love for Sunny
Stewart’s admiration for Ozell extended far beyond their creative collaboration. As reported by The Blast, the actor had spoken openly about their marriage and the huge age difference between them.
The couple met in 2008 while Stewart was performing in a production of “Macbeth” in New York. They married in 2013, with longtime friend and “X-Men” costar Ian McKellen officiating.
Despite the age difference, Stewart again praised his wife’s intelligence and the joy she brought to his life. He also admitted that getting older sometimes made him think about the different expectations they had and the time they had together.
The marriage became an important part of the years that followed, with Grianach supporting his career while she pursued her own musical interests.
Sunny Ozell was by Patrick Stewart’s side during his last moments
Stewart’s death was confirmed on October 29, one day after he died at his home in Los Angeles. The Blast reported that the actor had experienced complications related to Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia.
His family revealed that Sunny stayed by his side in his final days. Their statement described a farewell to family, friends, music, prayers, laughter and tears.
At the same time, Stewart’s final years were marked by his determination to be creatively active. The actor said he had no intention of retiring from the role he loved so much. However, his Shakespeare recordings represented something different: a very personal project born from his wife’s inspiration.
What started as one simple proposal ultimately allowed Patrick Stewart to share his lifelong passion with millions, leaving another meaningful chapter in his incredible legacy.
