‘Lord of the Rings’ Acting Icon’s Sad Last Days: Pain-Racked Sir Ian McKellen, 85, Admits He Won’t Be Back on Stage for at Least Another Year

Sir Ian McKellen, the esteemed 85-year-old actor known for his iconic roles, including Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings,” has openly shared that he will not return to the stage for at least another year. This admission comes on the heels of a significant health scare he experienced earlier this year when he fell off the stage at London’s Noel Coward Theatre.

In an exclusive report from RadarOnline.com, it has been revealed that McKellen continues to recover from the serious injuries sustained during the fall, which left him with deep concerns about his health. The veteran actor noted that the fall was so harrowing it led him to believe he might have suffered a broken neck. “The injury has taken a toll, not just physically but mentally,” he explained, reflecting on the aftermath of that day.

McKellen recounted the moment, saying, “What I thought I was experiencing was far worse than it turned out to be.” He admitted to feeling panic during the incident, stating, “I told myself I was dying and needed to process that fear.” Despite this traumatic experience, he clarified, “I’m not on the brink of death just yet and I aspire to return to the stage when the time is right.”

When asked how he would determine his return to acting, he humorously remarked that it would likely hinge on contractual obligations. “I don’t plan on stepping back into the spotlight for a whole year, but by then, I hope the situation will have improved.”

In other news, McKellen has sparked excitement among fans by hinting at the possibility of reprising his beloved role as Gandalf in two upcoming “Lord of the Rings” films. The first installment, titled “Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum,” will feature Andy Serkis both directing and starring.

Regarding the new films, McKellen mused, “It’s hard to remain indifferent to the thought of returning to a role I thought I had left behind 25 years ago.” He hinted at the films potentially including Gandalf’s character, although he remains uncertain until he’s seen the scripts. “There are talks about two films that could involve Gandalf in some capacity, but until I assess the material, I can’t say if it will be something I’d want to do.”

Shifting topics, McKellen has also shared some candid thoughts about his encounters with the British Royal Family. He recounted his experiences meeting the late Queen Elizabeth, whom he found to have a rather brusque demeanor. “She was quite direct, perhaps a bit rude at times,” he commented, recalling a moment when he received an honor from her. “When I was presented with a medal, she quipped about how long I had been acting. I cheekily responded, ‘Well, not as long as you.’ I got a smile for that, but then she turned around and asked, ‘Does anyone still actually go to the theatre?’ It was rather unbecoming of a royal, given the occasion.”

With all this in mind, the future holds both uncertainty and hope for Sir Ian McKellen as he navigates his recovery while looking ahead to potential new projects and cherished memories of the past.