Breakthrough Roles and Public Recognition

McKellen rose to global fame for his portrayal of Magneto in the X-Men film series. Contrary to a common misconception, Magneto is not a paralyzed man in a wheelchair; that characterization applies to Professor X. Magneto is a powerful mutant who can manipulate magnetic fields and control metal, and McKellen brought depth and gravitas to this iconic role.

Outside of his acting accomplishments, McKellen has been an outspoken supporter of the LGBTQ+ community. He publicly came out as gay in 1988 and has since used his platform to advocate for equality and human rights. He has credited his step-mother for embracing his identity with understanding and progressive thinking, describing her as ahead of her time.

Relationships and Personal Life

McKellen's first significant relationship began in 1964 with Brian Taylor, a history teacher from Bolton. The couple lived together in London during a time when same-sex relationships were neither widely accepted nor legally recognized in the UK. While McKellen had not yet come out publicly, those close to him in the theatre community were aware of his orientation. The relationship lasted until 1972.

During this period, unfounded rumors circulated suggesting McKellen was romantically involved with women, though these were largely viewed as speculative and not substantiated. As same-sex partnerships were not legally acknowledged at the time, marriage was not an option for the couple.

Relationship with Sean Mathias

McKellen's second notable relationship was with actor and director Sean Mathias. The two met in 1978 at the Edinburgh Festival and quickly formed a connection, moving in together that same year. Their partnership lasted a decade, ending in 1988. Mathias later described their relationship as intense and occasionally turbulent, particularly due to disparities in their career trajectories.

Despite their separation, McKellen and Mathias maintained a professional relationship. They later collaborated in theatre, notably on a production of Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. They also co-invested in a business venture, jointly leasing The Grapes, a historic pub located on Narrow Street in London.

Coming Out and LGBTQ+ Advocacy

Although McKellen had long been open about his sexuality with close friends and colleagues, he publicly came out in 1988, the same year his relationship with Sean Mathias ended. His coming out marked a pivotal moment in his life and career, and he has since been recognized as an influential voice in the movement for LGBTQ+ rights.

McKellen has never married and, therefore, has never gone through a divorce. His public persona and candidness about his identity have contributed significantly to broader acceptance and representation for the LGBTQ+ community in both the arts and society at large.