Sir Ian Murray McKellen CH CBE (born 25 May 1939) is an English actor. With a career spanning six decades, he is known for his diverse roles in genres ranging from Shakespearean and modern theatre to popular fantasy and science fiction. McKellen, a British cultural icon, was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1991 for his significant contributions to drama. He has received numerous accolades, including a Tony Award, six Olivier Awards, and a Golden Globe Award, with nominations for two Academy Awards, five BAFTA Awards, and five Emmy Awards.

McKellen made his stage debut in 1961 and his first West End appearance in 1965. It was only in 1969 that he started receiving lead parts in Shakespeare's Richard II and Marlowe's Edward II. His roles in the 1970s established him as a stalwart of the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre of Great Britain. His contributions as a performer range from modern drama and Greek tragedy to contemporary sitcoms, cinema, and fantasy roles. McKellen's rise to global popularity can be attributed to his memorable roles in movies such as Richard III (1995), Gods and Monsters (1998), X-Men films, and Lord of the Rings (2001–2003) and Hobbit trilogies. He is an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ rights, even coming out as gay in 1988. He also co-founded Stonewall, an LGBT rights lobby group in the UK.