Sir Ian McKellen Says He Is Open To Returning as Gandalf

Ian McKellen, the legendary British actor renowned for his powerful performances on both stage and screen, has expressed a keen interest in returning to his iconic role as Gandalf in the upcoming film The Hunt for Gollum. In a recent interview with BBC, McKellen revealed his strong desire to reprise his role as the wise wizard from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings series. “I’m not letting anyone else put on the pointy hat and beard if I can help it,” he said, underscoring his commitment to the character.

McKellen’s involvement in The Hunt for Gollum would mark a return to a role that has become synonymous with his illustrious career. He first portrayed Gandalf in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy, beginning with The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) and continuing through The Two Towers (2002) and The Return of the King (2003). His portrayal of the character was met with widespread acclaim and is considered one of the highlights of his career, earning him several award nominations, including two Academy Award nods.

The forthcoming film The Hunt for Gollum was announced earlier this May and is set to be directed by Andy Serkis, who famously portrayed Gollum in the original trilogy. Peter Jackson, the director of the original films, will serve as a producer. The film is expected to explore new dimensions of Tolkien’s universe and is slated for release in 2026.

In his interview, McKellen acknowledged that details about the film, including the script and specific plot points, are still being finalized. “When? I don’t know. What the script is? It’s not written yet. So, they better be quick,” he commented, highlighting his eagerness to get back into the role.

McKellen’s enthusiasm for returning to Gandalf comes as he takes a brief hiatus from acting due to an on-stage accident. The actor recently suffered a broken wrist and chipped vertebrae while performing on the West End. Despite this setback, McKellen has reassured fans that he intends to continue acting as long as his health permits. “As long as the legs and the lungs and the mind keep working,” he said, reflecting his enduring passion for the craft.

Born in 1939 in Burnley, England, McKellen has had a storied career that spans over six decades. He is celebrated for his performances in a variety of genres, from Shakespearean roles to modern cinema. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including knighthood in 1991 for his services to drama. McKellen’s portrayal of Gandalf is just one facet of his rich and varied career, which includes memorable roles in films such as X-Men (2000), where he played Magneto, and The Hobbit trilogy, where he reprised his role as Gandalf.

The announcement of The Hunt for Gollum and McKellen’s potential return to the role of Gandalf is eagerly anticipated by fans of Tolkien’s work and McKellen’s many admirers. As the film continues to develop, McKellen’s involvement promises to add a touch of magic and familiarity to the beloved Middle-earth saga.