“See you out there, Mon Capitaine.”
Q (John de Lancie) was the very first antagonist the crew of the USS Enterprise-D encountered in Star Trek: The Next Generation’s 1987 debut, “Encounter at Farpoint.” And, while it took the virtually omnipotent being almost 40 years to eventually form a true friendship with Captain Jean-Luc Picard (Patrick Stewart), it’s clear from their on and off-screen chemistry that the late actor and de Lancie enjoyed a strong bong in real life.
So, after the news that Stewart died broke online, de Lancie took to his official Facebook page and wrote the following tribute to honor his friend and Star Trek costar: “For forty years, Q has been a thorn in Jean-Luc Picard’s side. And what a pleasure it has been to be that thorn. Patrick Stewart was a wonderful actor.”
“He brought intelligence and depth to every role he played,” de Lancie continued. “It was a privilege to have worked with him. The universe is a little smaller and a little less bright today with his passing. Goodbye, Patrick. You touched so many. See you out there, Mon Capitaine.”
For those who may be new to the fandom, the photo (below) de Lancie included of himself and Stewart from Star Trek: Picard's second season is quite significant. That was the last moment ever shared between Q and Jean-Luc, and it was one of the most emotional and unforgettable scenes ever produced for a Trek project.
After nearly four decades, Admiral Picard finally realizes that Q doesn’t want to die alone. Picard also finally comes to the realization that Q has always truly cared about him. “Farewell, Mon Capitaine,” Q says before he vanishes from Jean-Luc’s sight forever. “It’s time for me to go.”
“But not alone,” Picard insists as their unlikely friendship finally comes to the forefront. “Isn’t that the point of all this?” Picard then lovingly embraces Q and pulls him close, as tears form in de Lancie’s eyes. “See you out there,” Q whispers as Picard nods and smiles before he snaps his fingers and vanishes.
Personally, in terms of emotional impact, the final scene between Q and Picard in “Farewell” ranks right up there with Captain Spock’s (Leonard Nimoy) death in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. So, reading de Lancie’s social media tribute to Stewart and seeing that memorable image of the two characters left me teary eyed all over again.
For more Star Trek content and to remember Sir Patrick Stewart, please visit the Redshirts Always Die Facebook and X pages to share your own memories of the beloved actor.
Live long and prosper, Trekkies!
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