Ian McKellen is a celebrated British actor whose film career is marked by iconic roles that have made him globally renowned. He is universally recognized for his portrayal of Gandalf, the wise and powerful wizard in *The Lord of the Rings* trilogy and *The Hobbit*.

Equally celebrated is his role as Magneto, the charismatic yet formidable mutant, in the *X-Men* saga. McKellen brings to his characters an imposing stage presence, a deep voice, and a remarkable ability to convey authority and emotional complexity. Although often associated with figures of power or mentors in the fantasy and sci-fi genres, he has demonstrated great versatility; an example of this is his acclaimed performance in *Gods and Monsters*, which earned him an Oscar nomination. His Shakespearean theatrical training is reflected in the gravitas and precision of his roles.