The Lord of the Rings star sat down with The Times London to discuss his experiences playing some of the most influential queer roles in British theatre over the years. In case you didn’t know, Ian publicly came out during a BBC radio interview at 48 years old in 1988 — a whole 25 years before gay marriage was legalized in the UK.

Sir Ian McKellen isn’t mincing words when it comes to sexuality. The veteran actor, 85, who came out as gay in 1988, has made his feelings very clear about young people, particularly actors, who choose to stay closeted rather than being open and honest about their sexual preferences.

Sir Ian McKellen made waves when he came out as gay in 1988, and encouraged other stars hiding their sexuality to take a brave step and 'get into the sunshine'

Ian McKellen is encouraging famous queer people to come out of the closet — and not everyone is taking too kindly to the suggestion. The legendary actor recently spoke with The Times about about Christopher Marlowe’s Edward II.

Working with Evans, as well as gay actor Simon Russell Beale, who played the role in 1990, has McKellen reflecting on being out and in the spotlight. “You don’t have to be gay

Lord of the Rings' actor Sir Ian McKellen "never met anybody who came out [as gay] who regretted it". The #1 burger chain in America isn't Five Guys or McDonald's, according to customers. See the top 20.

Ian McKellen has offered an encouraging message to actors who haven’t yet come out of the closet, insisting that he hasn’t “met anybody who came out who regretted it.” The beloved star shared his thoughts on closeted actors during a recent interview with The Times of London.