In a recent episode of the popular talk show “Alan Carr: Chatty Man,” legendary actor Sir Ian McKellen opened up about his experiences as a gay man in the 1960s. The segment began with the audience giving a warm round of applause as Sir Ian McKellen took his seat. The conversation quickly turned lighthearted, with Alan Carr jokingly remarking that Sir Ian McKellen was featured on a stamp in New Zealand.
As the conversation flowed, they discussed various drinks and liqueurs and even indulged in a taste test. Moving on to discuss McKellen’s iconic role as Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” and the upcoming prequel film “The Hobbit,” the actor shared that the initial plan was for two films but expanded into three due to an abundance of good material. While some critics questioned the decision, McKellen believed it was the right move to satisfy the fans.
When asked about playing Gandalf again, McKellen described the character as a wise and adventurous wizard who enjoyed socializing with the hobbits and indulging in smoke. This revelation led to a humorous discussion about smoking in the films and how it wouldn’t be the same if Gandalf was seen with a nicotine patch.
The conversation shifted to McKellen’s journey from primarily working in theater to landing roles in massive blockbusters. Initially, he admitted to having a snobbish attitude towards cinema, believing that only theater actors were “proper actors.” However, his perception changed when he received positive feedback for his role in a film adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Richard III.” This led to his involvement in movies like “X-Men” and, eventually, “The Lord of the Rings.”
Sir Ian McKellen also revealed that he will be appearing in a sitcom called “Vicious Old Queens.” He will be starring alongside his long-time friend Derek Jacobi as two gay men living together in Soho for 50 years. McKellen shared the irony that in their youth, they weren’t able to openly discuss their sexuality due to the societal climate of the time.
Towards the end of the segment, Alan Carr mentioned an article he had read about Sir Ian McKellen‘s battle with prostate cancer. In a candid response, McKellen revealed that he had been living with prostate cancer for the past eight years. He assured viewers that it was not a major concern and emphasized the importance of getting checked regularly. McKellen’s openness about his health prompted a positive response from the Prostate Cancer Charity, as more people reached out to get tested.
In conclusion, this episode of “Alan Carr: Chatty Man” provided a mix of lighthearted banter and insightful conversations, allowing viewers a glimpse into the life and experiences of Sir Ian McKellen. From discussing his iconic roles in “The Lord of the Rings” to his heartfelt revelation about prostate cancer, McKellen’s charisma and honesty captivated audiences and left a lasting impression.
