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Ian McKellen

Sir Ian Murray McKellen is an English actor known for his iconic performances in theatre, fantasy, and science fiction. He has been honored with seven Laurence Olivier Awards, a Tony Award, and a Golden Globe Award, cementing his place as a leading figure in British culture. The BBC has declared that his work has secured him a spot in the pantheon of English stage and film actors.

Ian McKellen
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Ian McKellen Facts

  1. 1.

    Personal life

    McKellen became an ordained minister of the Universal Life Church in early 2013 in order to preside over the marriage of his friend and X-Men co-star Sir Patrick Stewart to the singer Sunny Ozell.

  2. 2.

    Early life and education

    McKellen's acting career started at Bolton Little Theatre, of which he is now the patron.

  3. 3.

    Early life and education

    McKellen attended Bolton School (Boys' Division), of which he is still a supporter, attending regularly to talk to pupils.

  4. 4.

    Activism

    McKellen is also patron of LGBT History Month, Pride London, Oxford Pride, GAY-GLOS, LGBT Foundation and FFLAG where he appears in their video "Parents Talking".

  5. 5.

    Early life and education

    McKellen's father was a civil engineer and lay preacher, and was of Protestant Irish and Scottish descent.

  6. 6.

    Career

    McKellen appeared in the 2006 BBC series of Ricky Gervais's comedy series Extras, where he played himself directing Gervais's character Andy Millman in a play about gay lovers.

  7. 7.

    Career

    McKellen stars in the title role alongside an ensemble cast including Annette Bening, Robert Downey Jr., Jim Broadbent, Kristen Scott Thomas, Nigel Hawthorne and Dame Maggie Smith.

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