Ian McKellen (1939-), Actor

Sir Ian Murray McKellen

Sitter associated with 17 portraits
Widely regarded as one of the leading actors of his generation. Played numerous leads in the classical and modern repertoire in theatres worldwide. Born in Burnley and educated at Cambridge University, he made his London debut in A Scent of Flowers (1964). His stage performances, particularly of Shakespeare, are legendary and include title roles in Richard II (1969) and Macbeth, in which he played opposite Dame Judi Dench (1976-7). Nominated for Academy Awards for his performances in the films Gods and Monsters (1998) and Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001.) In 1991 he was knighted for his services to performing arts.