Sir Ian McKellen is considered one of the greatest stage actors of his generation. The English thespian is universally acclaimed for his work in theater, particularly in plays by William Shakespeare. Cinema audiences perhaps know him better for his performances as Gandalf in the 'Lord of the Rings' film franchise and as Magneto in the 'X-Men' franchise. Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1991 for services to the performing arts and the recipient of numerous honors and accolades, McKellen is now in his mid-eighties and has had his share of health scares, not least a nasty fall he suffered while acting on stage in 2024. But he is still treading the boards and gracing the big screen. So what are Ian McKellen's finest moments in a long and illustrious career?
Click through the gallery and admire the work of Sir Ian McKellen.