Ian McKellen

Cast · Writer

Born

May 25, 1939 · Burnley, Lancashire, England, UK

Birth name

Ian Murray McKellen

“In theater, I've been able to do roles I didn't think I could do. You have time to rehearse and learn. In film, they want you to do what they know you can do, there's no time.” Ian McKellen is a British actor noted for his versatility in theater, film, and television. Recognized for his iconic performance as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies directed by Peter Jackson, and for his portrayal of Magneto in the X-Men film series. In addition to his film career, Ian has a respected career in theater: he completed his acting studies at Cambridge University, and began his professional career in 1961. The role that brought him fame was that of Edward II of England, in the play Edward II, which established him as one of the most important classical actors in the country. He was also part of numerous Broadway plays, including Amadeus, for which he won a Tony Award. In 1993, he had his film debut with a small role in Six Degrees of Separation, but he began to be known in the film Gods and Monsters. Other of his best-known films include: Richard III (1995), Apt Pupil (1998), Mr. Holmes (2005), The Da Vinci Code (2006), The Good Liar (2019), among others. He has received numerous awards throughout his career, including several Olivier Awards, a Golden Globe, and has been nominated for Academy Awards twice. He is also known for his activism for LGBTQ+ rights, and a prominent advocate for equality and human rights. Ian is a talented and committed actor who is highly respected in the industry. His dedication to his craft and his integrity have made him an admired figure.