Ian McKellen: A Candid Revelation That Shook His Fans

Sir Ian McKellen made headlines in April 2025 during a guest spot on ITV’s Loose Women, where he shocked audiences with a raw admission. The 86-year-old Lord of the Rings star confessed to a lifelong struggle with imposter syndrome, revealing he nearly quit acting after X-Men due to self-doubt. «I felt I didn’t deserve the praise,» he said, his vulnerability striking a chord with fans. This led to a transformative phase, with McKellen stepping back from major roles to mentor young actors and advocate for mental health. His life now centers on theatre and charity, a stark contrast to his blockbuster days. However, he has refused further media interviews, curtly telling reporters, «I’ve said my piece.» His silence reflects a need to reclaim control over his narrative after such an intimate disclosure.

Source: www.bbc.com/entertainment/ian-mckellen-2025