Ian McKellen

Ian McKellen is a revered Hollywood actor, best known for his iconic roles as Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” and Magneto in “X-Men.” His impressive career began at Cambridge University and was built on a strong foundation in theatre. McKellen is also celebrated for being one of the earliest openly gay actors in Hollywood, advocating passionately for LGBTQ+ rights. His substantial achievements in film and theatre are just the beginning of his remarkable expedition.

Early Life

Ian McKellen experienced a vibrant early life marked by a growing interest in acting. He grew up in Wigan and attended Bolton School, where he initially uncovered his passion for the stage, particularly portraying Malvolio in Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.”

This formative experience ignited his love for theatre, encouraged by his supportive parents. Pursuing his passion, McKellen went on to study at Cambridge University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1961, setting the foundation for his distinguished acting career.

Family Life

Ian McKellen has a close relationship with his parents, Margery Lois and Denis Murray McKellen, which played a noteworthy role in nurturing his early passion for acting and theatre.

He has been open about his experiences as a gay man since coming out publicly in 1988, an event that has had a profound impact on his family dynamics and relationships.

Although he has never had children, McKellen has formed strong bonds with many colleagues and fellow actors, often considering them as part of his extended family.

While he values his privacy regarding personal matters, he is an active advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.

Career

Ian McKellen is celebrated for his memorable performances as Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” and Magneto in the “X-Men” series. His distinguished career includes two Academy Award nominations: one for Best Actor in “Gods and Monsters” and another for Best Supporting Actor in “The Fellowship of the Ring.”

McKellen has excelled on stage, portraying iconic Shakespearean characters such as King Lear, Iago, and Richard III, and has garnered every major Broadway award for his role as Salieri in “Amadeus.” Since 1961, he has collaborated with prominent theatre companies like the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre of Great Britain.

Beyond his acting skill, McKellen is also a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, recognized as one of the initial openly gay actors to achieve considerable success in Hollywood.

Net Worth

Ian McKellen’s net worth is estimated at $60 million, attributed to his extensive career in theatre, film, and television.

He earned approximately $13 million for “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, $7 million for “X-Men,” and around $5 million for “The Hobbit.”

His acclaimed stage performances in multiple Shakespearean plays and modern theatre productions have also contributed greatly to his wealth.

In addition to acting, McKellen has participated in several endorsements and charity events, further enhancing his financial portfolio.

His long-standing career, spanning over six decades, has solidified his status as one of the highest-paid actors in both film and theatre.