Malcolm Stewart, a veteran character actor, has built up an impressive array of roles across film, television, and theater. Though his work spans multiple genres, it’s his recurring appearances in science fiction series that have made him a familiar face to fans of the genre. With his unmistakably stern demeanor, Stewart has popped up in one sci-fi show after another, becoming a quietly menacing staple of the universe. From “The X-Files” to “Battlestar Galactica,” and the popular FOX series “Fringe,” he’s consistently brought a certain gravitas to the screen. His role as the ever-irritating Principal Hooper on ABC Family’s “Kyle XY” remains one of his most recognizable performances, further cementing his status as a go-to actor for authoritative, slightly sinister figures.
Over the years, Malcolm Stewart has often been cast as doctors, scientists, and officers from distant galaxies, roles in which he exudes a calm but firm presence. Born in Montreal, Stewart grew up the son of an RAF pilot known for crossing the Atlantic more than a hundred times—an aviation legacy that makes his performance in the Emmy-winning mini-series “Titanic” all the more poignant. In that role, he portrayed a man in uniform whose ship never made it across the Atlantic at all, adding a layer of irony and tragedy to his portrayal.
In addition to his television work, Stewart has appeared in several notable films. Among them, three premiered at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival: “Moon,” “Helen,” and the unsettling “Grace,” where he played a doctor caught in a deeply disturbing situation involving a newborn with deadly appetites. While those roles showcased his versatility, many still remember him best for a more emotional turn—playing the late father of two children who find themselves pulled into a wild, dangerous game world in the beloved Robin Williams fantasy hit, “Jumanji.”
Malcolm Stewart has been part of several films throughout his career, but one that really stands out is Moon (2009), which happens to be his highest-rated movie. On the flip side, Screwed (2000) is often regarded as the film where Malcolm Stewart’s performance received the least favorable reception. While there are other films in his filmography, these two titles—Moon and Screwed—represent the high and low points in terms of critical response to Malcolm Stewart’s work on screen.