Ian McKellen as Gandalf in “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey.” (AP Photo/Warner Bros., James Fisher, File)
Veteran English actor Ian McKellen has brought to life many iconic characters throughout his illustrious career. Perhaps his most riveting portrayal is that of the lovable, staff-wielding Gandalf from the Lord of the Rings franchise.
In a recent interview on BBC’s “Hardtalk” segment, the 77-year-old actor revealed he could have portrayed yet another popular “long-bearded” wizard: Albus Dumbledore of the Harry Potter franchise.
After the untimely passing of the character’s original actor Richard Harris in 2002, Warner Bros. offered the part to McKellen.
However, much to the studio’s surprise, he turned down the opportunity to assume the mantle. The role eventually went to Sir Michael Gambon, who played it in the next six movies.
“When they (Warner Bros.) called me up and said would I be interested in being in the Harry Potter films—they didn’t say what part—I worked out what they were thinking, and I couldn’t,” he said. “I couldn’t take over the part from an actor I’d known didn’t approve of me.”
McKellen’s sentiments stems from Harris’ earlier comments referring to him as “technically brilliant but passionless.”
“Well sometimes, sometimes when I see the posters of Mike Gambon, the actor who gloriously plays Dumbledore, I think sometimes it is me,” the multi-award-winning actor said.
Despite missing out on yet another popular pop-culture figure, McKellen seems to be quite satisfied with his decision and even paid homage to his Gandalf character.
“When he (Harris) died, he played Dumbledore, the wizard,” said McKellen. “I played the real wizard.” Khristian Ibarrola /ra