Ian McKellen He was one of the first actors openly admitting to homosexuality. Revealed his orientation during the radio program, during which a discussion took place about one of the proposals Margaret Thatcher. In 1990, the British Queen awarded him a noble title in recognition of his merits for the world of art.
“Eating breakfast in bed, I watched the broadcast from London. All cameras were directed to the front door at Downing Street 10 (Office of the Prime Minister of Great Britain – editor’s note) waiting for Margaret Thacher, who was to end his political career that day. Suddenly the phone rang: ‘here the premiere office’ Lord, contact the Lord at the Queen. ‘ Clawed, I asked for time to think about it. Szlachecki ” – this is how McKellen recalls that moment.
Ian McKellen in an interview with The Times of London He encouraged young homosexual actors to “leave the wardrobe”, advising them to “listen to their heart”.
“I have never met anyone who would regret the coming out. I feel sorry for every famous person who feels that he cannot reveal himself. Life in the wardrobe is stupid – there is no need. Do not listen to your advisers, follow your voice. Listen to your friends gays who know better. Come out. Come hiding. Enter the sun” – said the actor quoted by Deadline.
McKellen in the same conversation added that currently Great Britain is more tolerant than the United States, where many states strive to abolish legal single -sex marriages. He regretted the fact that until now the Oscar winner in the category of the best leading actor has not been openly declared a homosexual.
In his rich acting career, Ian McKellen portrayed homosexual figures several times. For the role of director James Whale in “Gods and monsters” by Bill Condon from 1998 he received the first Oscar nomination in his career. In turn, in the series “Vicious” plays an older gay living in a long relationship with his partner.
For many viewers, he will forever remain Gandalf from “Lord of the Rings”. This role brought him a second Oscar nomination.
Read more: The star will return to the iconic role after years? “Better let them hurry”