Sir Ian McKellen is that rarest of characters: a celebrity whose distinguished political and social service has transcended his enormous fame and international stardom to reach far beyond the stage and screen.The breadth of his endeavour – professional, personal and political – has been truly staggering. Of some 400 stage and film roles, there are only 3, in his own estimation, of which he has not been proud. Iconic roles have not been in short supply: Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ being perhaps the most universally-recognised and well-loved. Add to all this McKellen’s tireless political activism in the cause of gay equality, and you have a veritable phenomenon. This biography probes the heart of the actor, recreating for the reader his greatest stage roles, and exploring the inner man in his personal relationships.

Author Garry O’Connor Published by Weidenfeld & Nicolson ISBN 9781474608534 EAN 9781474608534 Bic Code Cover Paperback