Ian McKellen and his conversation with Alec Guinness about political involvement
Intelligence Summary
- Ian McKellen reveals a conversation with Alec Guinness in which he was urged to reconsider his support for gay rights.
Ian McKellen and his conversation with Alec Guinness about political involvement
Actor Ian McKellen, known for his roles in 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'X-Men', has recently made a striking revelation about a meeting with Alec Guinness, the legendary actor who became famous as Obi-Wan Kenobi in 'Star Wars'. During a lunch years ago, Guinness urged McKellen to reconsider his support for a gay rights organization.
Meeting between two actors
The meeting between Ian McKellen and Alec Guinness took place during an Italian lunch in Pimlico. What began as an informal chat about everyday topics took a more serious turn when Guinness confronted McKellen about his involvement with Stonewall, a prominent organization that campaigns for gay rights in the United Kingdom.
Guinness, who had enjoyed an illustrious career and won numerous awards, raised the idea that it might be inappropriate for actors to get involved in political issues. McKellen recalled Guinness encouraging him not to interfere in politics, saying he felt it was improper for an actor to involve himself in such matters.
Stonewall and its impact
Ian McKellen played an important role in the founding of Stonewall in 1989, an organization that works for equal treatment of lesbians and gay men. McKellen's work with Stonewall included lobbying for equality for the LGBTQ+ community under UK law. Over the years, the organization has helped drive major progress, including challenging the ban on gay members of the armed forces and supporting the introduction of same-sex marriage.
The unavoidable message
Returning to the lunch with Guinness, McKellen says the actor 'sort of' begged him to step back from public and political matters. Despite the advice from the older generation, McKellen chose to stand by his views and did not give up his involvement in gay rights. He described it as the 'worst advice' he had ever received, but ultimately did not follow it.
Timeline
1989: Stonewall is founded by Ian McKellen and others to lobby for equal rights for LGBTQ+ people in the UK.
2000: Alec Guinness dies after a remarkable career that earned him numerous awards, including an Academy Award.
Now: Ian McKellen appears in the film 'The Christophers' and is preparing to reprise his role as Magneto in 'Avengers: Doomsday', due in December.
Conclusion
Ian McKellen's ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ rights is a major part of his life and career. His conversation with Alec Guinness reflects the sometimes conflicting views on the role of actors in political matters. McKellen found his own way to connect his artistic and activist passions, helping drive a wide range of meaningful change in society.
