Veteran actor Sir Ian McKellen mentioned that although he has not been given a script or an opportunity to reprise his well-known "The Lord of the Rings" role as Gandalf in the upcoming film in the series, he would be interested if the opportunity arose. He said if he was still alive at the time, he would like to try it out.
McKellen, who recently celebrated his 85th birthday, is one of the most active actors in contemporary British theatre.
The actor marked his birthday on May 25 by performing as Falstaff in "Player Kings," director Robert Icke's lengthy adaptation of Shakespeare's "Henry IV," Part I and Part II.
It was recently revealed that a new "Lord of the Rings" film titled "The Hunt for Gollum," set to be released in 2026 will be produced by Peter Jackson and directed by Andy Serkis.
McKellen mentioned that he received information that Gandalf will be a part of the newest installment in the fantastical adventure film series based on JRR Tolkein's novels.
"But there is no script, there is no offer, there is no plan," he told The London Times.
The actor, who played the revered wizard Gandalf in the original "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy (2001–2003) and its prequel trilogy "The Hobbit" (2012-2014), wouldn't mind reprising his character.
"If I'm alive," he added.
If given the chance to portray Gandalf in "The Hunt for Gollum", McKellen would be delighted since he hasn't had a clean shave in months due to his role as Falstaff in the play.
“The Hunt for Gollum” is set to become the initial live-action film in The Lord of the Rings series following the completion of the trilogy directed by Peter Jackson.
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