Some names carry a lot of weight in the world of cinema. Such is the case when it comes to Sir Ian McKellen. For over six decades, McKellen has graced both stage and screen, captivating audiences all around the world. While he has long been known for his commanding presence and his impressive career, he has also gone above and beyond when it comes to humanitarian and social issues. Learn more about how McKellen has helped others- including by becoming an ordained ULC minister- over the course of his life.
Early Years and Breakout Roles
Born in 1939 in Burnley, Lancashire, McKellen would take to acting from an early age. By the 1960s, he was starting to make a name for himself by performing in a variety of staged productions throughout England. It was in the 70s, however, when he truly gained momentum. McKellen frequently performed with both the Royal Shakespeare Company and Royal National Theatre during this decade. He would play a variety of leads in these Shakespeare productions, which helped him to find film roles around the same time.
Though he has had an extensive film career, his abilities on camera truly hit new heights in the 90s. It was around this time that McKellen began working as a screenwriter for a screen adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Richard III.” The production was considered quite the ambitious project, with McKellen also starring as the titular lead of the film and performing alongside talent like Annette Bening and Robert Downey Jr. The film was a success with critics and audiences, effectively launching McKellen into a more prominent position in the eye of the public.
Wizards and Mutants and Ministers
Despite the success he experienced in the decades leading up to the early aughts, McKellen would truly be launched into stardom by taking on some very specific roles as the 90s came to a close. McKellen would be cast as the legendary wizard Gandalf in Peter Jackson's film trilogy adaptation of Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” series. Around the same time, he was cast as Magneto in Fox’s “X-Men” film series. Both Gandalf and Magneto would prove beyond memorable to audiences, granting McKellen a whole new level of stardom in the world of pop culture.
While performing in the “X-Men” series, McKellen became particularly close with co-star Patrick Stewart. The two, who played adversaries on screen, would bond behind the scenes over their careers and admiration for the other. It was this friendship that led McKellen to become an ordained minister through the Universal Life Church. In 2013, Stewart was engaged to be wed to the singer Sunny Ozell. McKellen was asked to preside over the ceremony, and he became a ULC minister as a way of honoring the friendship he shared with Stewart.
A History of Fighting for LGBTQ+ Rights
McKellen is openly gay and has long been an advocate for issues in the LGBTQ+ community. In fact, he established a lobbying group in the United Kingdom known as Stonewall. The name of the group comes from the infamous Stonewall Riots that occurred in New York City and sparked what would later become the Pride celebrations for those who identify as members of the community. McKellen has been present at countless Pride parades across the world, often referring to himself as “Serena,” a name given to him by comedian Stephen Fry.
From serving as a minister for the Universal Life Church to playing iconic roles, including immortal wizards, mutants with control over magnetism, and prominent historical figures, Sir Ian McKellen has one of the most impressive and extensive careers on record. Whether you are a fan of his acting or his philanthropic achievements, it is easy to see why this man is considered one of the most talented individuals currently alive.