Ian McKellen — film and theatre legend, Gandalf the Grey, and absolute queer icon — is encouraging actors to “get into the sunshine” and not hide who they are.

The Lord of the Rings star sat down with The Times London to discuss his experiences playing some of the most influential queer roles in British theatre over the years. In case you didn’t know, Ian publicly came out during a BBC radio interview at 48 years old in 1988 — a whole 25 years before gay marriage was legalized in the UK.

Ian McKellen said in a recent interview with The Times of London that he feels sorry for fellow actors who feel like they can’t come out as gay. The “X-Men” and “Lord of the Rings” icon has been one of the most prominent gay actors for decades.

Ian McKellen said in a new interview that he hopes more LGBTQ+ actors embrace their sexuality, explaining that 'being in the closet is silly.'

The 85-year-old actor, Sir Ian McKellen, is urging young gay actors to come out and live openly. In a recent interview, he shared his thoughts on why hiding one’s identity is unnecessary and how being open can make a difference,

Ian McKellen is encouraging famous queer people to come out of the closet — and not everyone is taking too kindly to the suggestion. The legendary actor recently spoke with The Times about about Christopher Marlowe’s Edward II.

Working with Evans, as well as gay actor Simon Russell Beale, who played the role in 1990, has McKellen reflecting on being out and in the spotlight. “You don’t have to be gay

Lord of the Rings' actor Sir Ian McKellen "never met anybody who came out [as gay] who regretted it". The #1 burger chain in America isn't Five Guys or McDonald's, according to customers. See the top 20.

Ian McKellen has offered an encouraging message to actors who haven’t yet come out of the closet, insisting that he hasn’t “met anybody who came out who regretted it.” The beloved star shared his thoughts on closeted actors during a recent interview with The Times of London.