Ian McKellen, a British actor, is one of the most iconic names in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning almost six decades, McKellen has made a lasting impact on the world of theatre and film with his extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft.
McKellen’s illustrious career began in the theatre where he starred in several productions, including William Shakespeare’s plays. He received critical acclaim for his performances in various shows, such as “Richard III,” “Macbeth,” and “Coriolanus.” He also became a prominent member of the Royal Shakespeare Company during the 1970s.
In the 1980s, McKellen started his foray into film, beginning with the comedy “Priest of Love” in 1981. However, it was his role in the 1993 film adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Richard III” that firmly established him as a film star. He was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his performance in the film.
Throughout the 2000s, McKellen delivered unforgettable performances in various blockbuster franchises – including the X-Men series, where he played the character of Magneto, and the Lord of the Rings trilogy, where he portrayed the wizard Gandalf. The roles placed him firmly in the international limelight and brought his work to a younger audience.
McKellen has continued to act in successful films, television series, and plays in recent years, including his famous portrayal of Sherlock Holmes in the 2015 film “Mr. Holmes” and most recently co-starring in the musical film “Cats” in 2019.
Apart from his acting career, McKellen has also been a prominent activist for LGBTQ+ rights. In 1988, he publicly came out as gay and has since been a vocal advocate of the LGBTQ+ community. He has also been an active supporter of different organizations, including Stonewall and the Albert Kennedy Trust.
In 1991, McKellen was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his contribution to the performing arts, and in 1999, he was made a Knight Bachelor for his services to drama.
Overall, Ian McKellen’s career is nothing short of illustrious, having become one of the world’s most admired and respected actors. With a multitude of awards and critical acclaim for his work on stage and screen, he has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry that will stand the test of time.
| Place of Birth | Burnley, Lancashire, England, UK |
|---|---|
| Birthday | 1939-05-25 |
| Homepage | http://www.mckellen.com |
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