Sir Ian McKellen has a savage response to actors thinking of replacing him as Gandalf
As a wise wizard once said, 'You shall not pass!' Yasmeen Hamadeh It's practically impossible to imagine another actor playing the role of Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, and apparently, Sir Ian McKellen is in agreement. The 85-year-old actor made history in Peter Jackson's legendary trilogy, and its subsequent spin-offs, where he played a wise wizard audiences have come to know and love as Gandalf the Gray (or technically the White if we want to be a little more accurate). From the original trilogy to the Hobbit prequels, McKellen has played Gandalf time and time again to absolute perfection and has achieved what can only be considered every actor's dream in making and originating a character that is completely his. So much so, that he's perhaps made the task of another actor stepping into his wizardry shoes almost impossible. Sir Ian McKellen gave a powerhouse performance as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings. (New Line / WireImage) In fact, the actor is completely aware of it, succinctly telling the BBC Breakfast: "I'm not letting anyone else put on the pointy hat and beard if I can help it." We have no notes. None whatsoever. In his conversation with the BBC, McKellen was referencing an upcoming Lord of the Rings prequel film titled The Hunt for Gollum. Due to be released in 2026, Andy Serkis is slated to not only reprise the iconic titular role but is also set to direct the film. Sir Ian hopes to return as Gandalf in upcoming projects.
(Tristan Fewings - WPA Pool / Getty Images) McKellen has expressed interest in reprising his role as Gandalf for The Hunt for Gollum, and other future Lord of the Rings projects , telling The Big Issue, "Enthusiasm for The Lord of the Rings shows no. . sign of abating. "I can not tell you any more. I've just been told there are going to be more films and Gandalf will be involved and they hope that I'll be playing him, "he added." When? I do not know. What the script is?
,
As a wise wizard once said, 'You shall not pass!' Yasmeen Hamadeh It's practically impossible to imagine another actor playing the role of Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, and apparently, Sir Ian McKellen is in agreement. The 85-year-old actor made history in Peter Jackson's legendary trilogy, and its subsequent spin-offs, where he played a wise wizard audiences have come to know and love as Gandalf the Gray (or technically the White if we want to be a little more accurate). From the original trilogy to the Hobbit prequels, McKellen has played Gandalf time and time again to absolute perfection and has achieved what can only be considered every actor's dream in making and originating a character that is completely his. So much so, that he's perhaps made the task of another actor stepping into his wizardry shoes almost impossible. Sir Ian McKellen gave a powerhouse performance as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings. (New Line / WireImage) In fact, the actor is completely aware of it, succinctly telling the BBC Breakfast: "I'm not letting anyone else put on the pointy hat and beard if I can help it." We have no notes. None whatsoever. In his conversation with the BBC, McKellen was referencing an upcoming Lord of the Rings prequel film titled The Hunt for Gollum. Due to be released in 2026, Andy Serkis is slated to not only reprise the iconic titular role but is also set to direct the film. Sir Ian hopes to return as Gandalf in upcoming projects.
(Tristan Fewings - WPA Pool / Getty Images) McKellen has expressed interest in reprising his role as Gandalf for The Hunt for Gollum, and other future Lord of the Rings projects , telling The Big Issue, "Enthusiasm for The Lord of the Rings shows no. . sign of abating. "I can not tell you any more. I've just been told there are going to be more films and Gandalf will be involved and they hope that I'll be playing him, "he added." When? I do not know. What the script is?
It's not written yet. So, they better be quick. " The Lord of the Rings' ever-expanding roster so far includes Prime Video's prequel series, The Rings of Power , and an upcoming animated film titled The War of the Rohirrim slated to be released in December . Actor sustained an injury in June. Dave Benett / Getty Images for The Wolseley Hospitality Group) McKellen previously fell off stage in June while performing in Player Kings in London's West End.He sustained injuries to his wrist and vertebrae .
BBC Radio 4's Today program on the incident, McKellen shared that he was physically better but that 'it's emotionally that I've got some residue that I've got to deal with.'
"I said to myself as I tripped and slid off the stage, 'This is the end.' These were the words in my mind, 'This is the end,' "he added. "And apparently I shouted out, 'My neck is broken, I'm dying.' I do not remember saying that, so there was a lot going on in my head as the body responded to the fall. "Featured Image Credit: Tristan Fewings - WPA Pool / Getty Images / New Line / WireImage
Topics: Lord of the Rings , Celebrity , Film and TV
Original director of The Crow has savage response after remake 'flopped' at the box office
BBC Radio 4's Today program on the incident, McKellen shared that he was physically better but that 'it's emotionally that I've got some residue that I've got to deal with.'
"I said to myself as I tripped and slid off the stage, 'This is the end.' These were the words in my mind, 'This is the end,' "he added. "And apparently I shouted out, 'My neck is broken, I'm dying.' I do not remember saying that, so there was a lot going on in my head as the body responded to the fall. "Featured Image Credit: Tristan Fewings - WPA Pool / Getty Images / New Line / WireImage
Topics: Lord of the Rings , Celebrity , Film and TV
Original director of The Crow has savage response after remake 'flopped' at the box office
A remake of the 1994 The Crow starring Bill Skarsgård hit cinemas last week Callum Jones The director of the original The Crow has issued a savage verdict on the reboot that 'flopped' at box office. Last week a reboot of the 1994 movie was released, though it has failed to impress fans and critics alike. The Crow - Official Trailer Credit: Lionsgate 0 seconds of 2 minutes, 59 secondsVolume 90% The Crow (2024) has also bombed at box office, opening to a reported $ 4.6 million from a $ 50 million budget, according to Variety. The reboot sees Bill Skarsgård takes on the role of The Crow in the reimagining of the James O'Barr graphic novel. While the film's makers may be upset the movie has seemingly flopped, one person who is delighted is Alex Proyas, who directed the 1994 original. Speaking about the movie's box officer performance, Proyas wrote on Facebook: "I thought the remake was a cynical cash-grab. Not much cash to grab it seems." A remake of The Crow released last week. (Lionsgate) The director also shared some negative reviews about The Crow, with one reviewer dubbing the flick 'the worst movie of the year'. "The review we've all been waiting for. It's a bit like flogging a dead horse now so I think I'll stop after this… until another funny one comes along," Proyas wrote to this. The director has for a long while said the reboot of The Crow should never have happened . Tragedy struck during filming of the original movie as martial artist Brandon Lee - son of actor and martial artist Bruce Lee - was fatally injured on set.Lee was hit by a bullet fragment which had stayed in the barrel of a prop handgun during the filming of one particular scene. Proyas
took to Facebook in 2017 reflecting on the movie as Lee's 'lasting legacy,' arguing it would 'not be a movie worth remaking if it wasn't for' the actor.
took to Facebook in 2017 reflecting on the movie as Lee's 'lasting legacy,' arguing it would 'not be a movie worth remaking if it wasn't for' the actor.
The Crow's original director had a savage response. (Jim Spellman / WireImage)
He said: "If it wasn't for Brandon you may never have even heard of this poignant little underground comic. It is Brandon's movie.
" I believe it is a special case where Hollywood should just let it remain. . a testament to a man's immense talent and ultimate sacrifice - and not have others re-write that story or add to it.
"I know sequels were made, and TV shows, and what have you, but the notion of 'rebooting' this story, and the original character - a character Brandon gave life to at too high a cost - seems wrong to me.
" this remain Brandon's film. "
The Crow (2024) sits at a lowly 20 percent Rotten Tomatoes score after 100 mostly negative reviews.Featured Image Credit: Miramax / Lionsgate
Topics: Film and TV
He said: "If it wasn't for Brandon you may never have even heard of this poignant little underground comic. It is Brandon's movie.
" I believe it is a special case where Hollywood should just let it remain. . a testament to a man's immense talent and ultimate sacrifice - and not have others re-write that story or add to it.
"I know sequels were made, and TV shows, and what have you, but the notion of 'rebooting' this story, and the original character - a character Brandon gave life to at too high a cost - seems wrong to me.
" this remain Brandon's film. "
The Crow (2024) sits at a lowly 20 percent Rotten Tomatoes score after 100 mostly negative reviews.Featured Image Credit: Miramax / Lionsgate
Topics: Film and TV
Ridley Scott has savage response to why he did not call Russell Crowe for upcoming Gladiator 2 film
The director revealed the reason he did not have Russell Crowe return for the sequel to Gladiator Kit Roberts Ridley Scott has revealed why he did not speak with Russell Crowe for the Upcoming Gladiator II, Crowe starred in the first film as Maximus Decimus Meridius, the general who escaped an assassination attempt by the villainous Commodus and became a gladiator . to push back against the machinations of Commodus, culminating in him restoring Rome as emperor Marcus Aurelius had wished. Now, the upcoming sequel will see Lucius Verus, who appeared in the first film as a child, as the protagonist. Paul Mescal of Normal People will take on the starring role of Lucius, who is forced into slavery when Roman forces invade Numidia - a historic kingdom which was in modern day Algeria and parts of Tunisia and Libya. Meanwhile, Pedro Pascal will depart from his 'gruff man unwillingly escorts child and become fond of them' roles in The Mandalorian and The Last of Us to play antagonistic Roman general Marcus Acacius. But a notable absence from the film is Russell Crowe's Maximus, but director Ridley Scott gave a rather blunt reason for his not being involved.
The director revealed the reason he did not have Russell Crowe return for the sequel to Gladiator Kit Roberts Ridley Scott has revealed why he did not speak with Russell Crowe for the Upcoming Gladiator II, Crowe starred in the first film as Maximus Decimus Meridius, the general who escaped an assassination attempt by the villainous Commodus and became a gladiator . to push back against the machinations of Commodus, culminating in him restoring Rome as emperor Marcus Aurelius had wished. Now, the upcoming sequel will see Lucius Verus, who appeared in the first film as a child, as the protagonist. Paul Mescal of Normal People will take on the starring role of Lucius, who is forced into slavery when Roman forces invade Numidia - a historic kingdom which was in modern day Algeria and parts of Tunisia and Libya. Meanwhile, Pedro Pascal will depart from his 'gruff man unwillingly escorts child and become fond of them' roles in The Mandalorian and The Last of Us to play antagonistic Roman general Marcus Acacius. But a notable absence from the film is Russell Crowe's Maximus, but director Ridley Scott gave a rather blunt reason for his not being involved.
Paul Mescal will star (Eamonn M. McCormack / Getty Images for AELTC)
Fans of Gladiator may recall that Maximus dies from his wounds after killing Commodus in single combat in the Colosseum.
I'd say spoilers but Gladiator came out 24 years ago, so you've had more than enough time.
So, given that Maximus is not only dead, but made the supreme sacrifice to save Rome, Scott was clear that bringing him back was out of the question.
Speaking about not consulting Crowe over the movie, Scott Empire magazine: "I think he's still one of the best actors in the world, and I think we have a good relationship. I hope we do.
" As long as he doesn't start b * tching about how he was not consulted. Why would I? He's dead! "
Fans of Gladiator may recall that Maximus dies from his wounds after killing Commodus in single combat in the Colosseum.
I'd say spoilers but Gladiator came out 24 years ago, so you've had more than enough time.
So, given that Maximus is not only dead, but made the supreme sacrifice to save Rome, Scott was clear that bringing him back was out of the question.
Speaking about not consulting Crowe over the movie, Scott Empire magazine: "I think he's still one of the best actors in the world, and I think we have a good relationship. I hope we do.
" As long as he doesn't start b * tching about how he was not consulted. Why would I? He's dead! "
Pedro Pascal will play a Roman general (Gilbert Flores / Variety via Getty Images)
However, there will be members of the cast reprising their roles from the first movie.
These include Connie Nielson as Lucilla, Lucius' mother, and Sir Derek Jacobi as Senator Gracchus.
From what we know so far, we can expect plenty of gladiatorial brawling and gore as Mescal and Pascal meet, after
about his confidence in the movie, calling it 'the best thing I've ever had. made 'Coming from the director of Alien ,
and Thelma & Louise, not to mention Gladiator itself, that's no small feat
to Empire, adding: "One of the best things. I've made a few good 'uns. "Featured Image Credit: Gilbert Flores / Variety via Getty Images / Dreamworks LLC & Universal Pictures
Topics: Celebrity , Film and TV , News , UK News , US News , Entertainment
Lord of the Rings star Bernard Hill dies aged 79
Bernard Hill starred in the Lord of the Rings and Titanic Callum Jones The Lord of the Rings star Bernard Hill has died at the age of 79. His agent Lou Coulson confirmed the news of his death to the BBC on Sunday (May 5) is arguably best known for his role as King Théoden of Rohan in the latter two Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers and The Return of the King . gained worldwide fame and Hill was often praised for his role in the franchise. He and fellow Lord of the Rings star Viggo Mortensen received a tribute from the film's stunt team in the form of a haka as they were the actors who had portrayed Middle Earth's kings .
However, there will be members of the cast reprising their roles from the first movie.
These include Connie Nielson as Lucilla, Lucius' mother, and Sir Derek Jacobi as Senator Gracchus.
From what we know so far, we can expect plenty of gladiatorial brawling and gore as Mescal and Pascal meet, after
about his confidence in the movie, calling it 'the best thing I've ever had. made 'Coming from the director of Alien ,
and Thelma & Louise, not to mention Gladiator itself, that's no small feat
to Empire, adding: "One of the best things. I've made a few good 'uns. "Featured Image Credit: Gilbert Flores / Variety via Getty Images / Dreamworks LLC & Universal Pictures
Topics: Celebrity , Film and TV , News , UK News , US News , Entertainment
Lord of the Rings star Bernard Hill dies aged 79
Bernard Hill starred in the Lord of the Rings and Titanic Callum Jones The Lord of the Rings star Bernard Hill has died at the age of 79. His agent Lou Coulson confirmed the news of his death to the BBC on Sunday (May 5) is arguably best known for his role as King Théoden of Rohan in the latter two Lord of the Rings, The Two Towers and The Return of the King . gained worldwide fame and Hill was often praised for his role in the franchise. He and fellow Lord of the Rings star Viggo Mortensen received a tribute from the film's stunt team in the form of a haka as they were the actors who had portrayed Middle Earth's kings .
Bernard Hill has died at the age of 79. (Shirlaine Forrest / Getty Images)
Before all of that, Hill portrayed Captain Smith in Titanic , with the film depicting the infamous moment when the captain decides to go down with his ship.
And those a little older may remember Hill from his work in Boys from the Blackstuff.
In the series, Hill played Jimmy 'Yosser' Hughes, an unemployed tarmac layer who came to represent the mood of many Brits during the 1980s.
Hill continued to be involved within TV in his very last days.
He will be on our TV screens once more over the coming weeks as he has a role in the second season of Martin Freeman-led drama The Responder.
Many have flocked to social media to pay tribute to the actor, with fans dubbing him as 'an incredible, raw actor' and 'one of the greats'.
Before all of that, Hill portrayed Captain Smith in Titanic , with the film depicting the infamous moment when the captain decides to go down with his ship.
And those a little older may remember Hill from his work in Boys from the Blackstuff.
In the series, Hill played Jimmy 'Yosser' Hughes, an unemployed tarmac layer who came to represent the mood of many Brits during the 1980s.
Hill continued to be involved within TV in his very last days.
He will be on our TV screens once more over the coming weeks as he has a role in the second season of Martin Freeman-led drama The Responder.
Many have flocked to social media to pay tribute to the actor, with fans dubbing him as 'an incredible, raw actor' and 'one of the greats'.
Hill in the Titanic. (CBS via Getty Images)
Barbara Dickson, who previously worked with Hill, penned on X: "It's with great sadness that I note the death of Bernard Hill. We worked together in the John Paul George Ringo and Bert, Willy Russell marvelous show 1974 - 1975. A really marvelous actor.
"It was a privilege to have crossed paths with him. RIP Benny. "
Another fan on X wrote:" Rest in Peace Bernard Hill - the man responsible for the most iconic scene in cinematic history.
"A sword-day, a red day, ere the sun rises! Ride now, ride now, ride to Gondor!"
While a third remarked: "So sad to hear about the death of Bernard Hill. His portrayal of King Théoden is just incredible - what a legacy to have." Featured Image Credit: Karwai Tang / WireImage via Getty / New Line Cinema
Topics: Lord of the Rings , Film and TV
Brand new live action Lord of the Rings movie from Peter Jackson is now in the works
Warner Bros. is reteaming with Peter Jackson for a brand new Lord of the Rings film Callum Jones A brand new live action Lord of the Rings movie from Peter Jackson is in the works, it has been announced. During an earnings call on Thursday (9 May), Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav announced that the currently unnamed title is in the early stages of script development. On top of that, it will apparently 'explore storylines yet to be told'. Jackson, the original Lord of the Rings creator, is returning to head up the project, alongside his writing partners, Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, who are also producing the movie. " Lord of the Rings
is one of the most successful and revered franchises in history and presents a significant opportunity for theatrical business, "Zaslav said during the earnings call.
Barbara Dickson, who previously worked with Hill, penned on X: "It's with great sadness that I note the death of Bernard Hill. We worked together in the John Paul George Ringo and Bert, Willy Russell marvelous show 1974 - 1975. A really marvelous actor.
"It was a privilege to have crossed paths with him. RIP Benny. "
Another fan on X wrote:" Rest in Peace Bernard Hill - the man responsible for the most iconic scene in cinematic history.
"A sword-day, a red day, ere the sun rises! Ride now, ride now, ride to Gondor!"
While a third remarked: "So sad to hear about the death of Bernard Hill. His portrayal of King Théoden is just incredible - what a legacy to have." Featured Image Credit: Karwai Tang / WireImage via Getty / New Line Cinema
Topics: Lord of the Rings , Film and TV
Brand new live action Lord of the Rings movie from Peter Jackson is now in the works
Warner Bros. is reteaming with Peter Jackson for a brand new Lord of the Rings film Callum Jones A brand new live action Lord of the Rings movie from Peter Jackson is in the works, it has been announced. During an earnings call on Thursday (9 May), Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav announced that the currently unnamed title is in the early stages of script development. On top of that, it will apparently 'explore storylines yet to be told'. Jackson, the original Lord of the Rings creator, is returning to head up the project, alongside his writing partners, Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens, who are also producing the movie. " Lord of the Rings
is one of the most successful and revered franchises in history and presents a significant opportunity for theatrical business, "Zaslav said during the earnings call.
Peter Jackson is involved with the new project. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images)
The newest Lord of the Rings project is set to be the first in a series of movies revisiting the fantasy world created by JRR Tolkien.
Jackson's much-loved trilogy and the Hobbit movies have already covered the most popular of Tolkien's works, but there are still other tales to be told within this amazing world.
It is set for a 2026 release date.
Last year, Warner Bros' announced more Lord of the Rings was coming , so it has certainly been a long wait for fans waiting for more information.
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav revealed that the studio and New Line Cinema had struck a long-term deal with Embracer Group AB's Middle-Earth Enterprises, for a series of new movies based on JRR Tolkien's fantasy world.
Discussing the agreement, Lee Guinchard, the CEO of Embracer Group's Freemode, said: "Following our recent acquisition of Middle-earth Enterprises, we're thrilled to embark on this new collaborative journey with New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Pictures, bringing the Incomparable world of JRR Tolkien back to the big screen in Warner Bros.
The newest Lord of the Rings project is set to be the first in a series of movies revisiting the fantasy world created by JRR Tolkien.
Jackson's much-loved trilogy and the Hobbit movies have already covered the most popular of Tolkien's works, but there are still other tales to be told within this amazing world.
It is set for a 2026 release date.
Last year, Warner Bros' announced more Lord of the Rings was coming , so it has certainly been a long wait for fans waiting for more information.
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav revealed that the studio and New Line Cinema had struck a long-term deal with Embracer Group AB's Middle-Earth Enterprises, for a series of new movies based on JRR Tolkien's fantasy world.
Discussing the agreement, Lee Guinchard, the CEO of Embracer Group's Freemode, said: "Following our recent acquisition of Middle-earth Enterprises, we're thrilled to embark on this new collaborative journey with New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Pictures, bringing the Incomparable world of JRR Tolkien back to the big screen in Warner Bros.
, we plan to honor the past, Luca and Pam Abdy, said it was an incredible
opportunity
to bring fans of the franchise deeper into the story.
"Twenty years ago, New Line took an unprecedented leap of faith to realize the incredible stories, characters and world of The Lord Of The Rings. The result was a landmark series of films that have been embraced by generations of fans, "They said. Featured Image Credit: New Line Cinema
Topics: Film and TV , Lord of the Rings
opportunity
to bring fans of the franchise deeper into the story.
"Twenty years ago, New Line took an unprecedented leap of faith to realize the incredible stories, characters and world of The Lord Of The Rings. The result was a landmark series of films that have been embraced by generations of fans, "They said. Featured Image Credit: New Line Cinema
Topics: Film and TV , Lord of the Rings
