25 May 1939 saw the birth of English actor Sir Ian Murray McKellen.
How old was Ian McKellen when he played Gandalf?
Ian started shooting the series in January 2000, making him 60 years old at the time. Ian played the character of Gandalf.
More Information About Ian McKellen
He has performed in Shakespearean plays, modern theater, as well as popular fantasy and science fiction works over the course of his seven-decade career.
He is regarded as a British cultural icon and has received many awards, including a Tony Award, a Golden Globe Award, and seven Laurence Olivier Awards.
The BBC claims that his “performances have guaranteed him a place in the canon of English theater and screen actors.”
In recognition of his contributions to the performing arts, McKellen was knighted in the 1980 New Year’s Honours.
His contributions to drama and equality earned him the title of Companion of Honor in the 2008 New Year’s Honours.
In 1988, he declared himself to be gay, and ever since, he has steered social movements for LGBT people all over the world. His Freedom from the City of London was conferred in October 2014.