Ian McKellen

Film & Theater England 1939 99 quotes

Magisterial Gandalf in Lord of the Rings, McKellen's 'You shall not pass!' rang quotably epic.

Quotes by Ian McKellen

Directing is harder than acting; you see all the flaws.

Interview 1990

I'm grateful for every role, good or bad.

Interview 2015

Humor is the best defense against prejudice.

Speech 2004

Shakespeare's words are timeless because they're human.

Lecture 1982

Activism is part of my identity as much as acting.

Interview 1996

The stage is where I feel most alive.

Speech 2013

Regret is a wasted emotion; learn and move on.

Interview 2001

Playing Gandalf was magical, but exhausting.

Interview 2002

Friendship is the true treasure in life.

Letter excerpt 2017

Innovation in theater keeps it relevant.

Speech 1987

I fight for the right to be myself every day.

Interview 2011

Wisdom comes from experience, not age alone.

Speech 2019

A witty remark can disarm any foe.

Interview 1998

The essence of acting is truth in imagination.

Lecture 1978

Life is a performance; make it memorable.

Interview 2022

Never underestimate the power of a good story.

Speech 2005

Equality for all is my lifelong passion.

Speech 2014

Laughter is the best medicine for the soul.

Interview 2010

Reflecting on life, I see the beauty in diversity.

Interview 2021