Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 8, 2024 9:16 am GMT
Actor Ian McKellen Critiques Royal Family in Candid Interview
Sir Ian McKellen, the renowned British actor, has recently conveyed his unfiltered opinions regarding the British royal family, including specific encounters with the late Queen Elizabeth II. During a conversation with the Times of London, the 85-year-old thespian recounted his experiences and reflections on the monarchy, highlighting the challenges faced by its members.
Encounter with the Late Queen
McKellen’s most striking remarks centered on his interactions with Queen Elizabeth II, where he described her demeanor as “quite rude.” The actor recounted his meeting with the Queen in 2008 when he was presented with a medal for his contributions to acting. Reflecting on the exchange, McKellen recalled, “On the few occasions I met her she was quite rude. When I received a medal for acting, she said, ‘You’ve been doing this for an awfully long time.’ I said, ‘Well, not as long as you.’”
He felt her subsequent comments were equally dismissive. “Then she said, ‘Does anyone still actually go to the theatre?’ That’s bloody rude when you’re giving someone a medal for acting,” he noted. McKellen perceived her words as implying that his work lacked importance. “It meant, ‘Does anyone care a f – – k about you because I don’t. Now off you go!’”
To emphasize the awkwardness of their meeting, McKellen acted out the handshake exchange, claiming that her gesture felt more like a push to leave. “That was her handshake, and it meant, ‘Go! Go!’”
Reflections on Mental Health in the Monarchy
McKellen’s critique extended beyond the late monarch to include King Charles III. He expressed concern for the mental health of the royal family members, revealing that he believes they live in a state of confinement. “Imagine being born into the royal family. I’ve been in public life a bit, but these people are in prison. They can’t do anything normal,” he explained, acknowledging the pressure to maintain a public image and comply with societal expectations.
Expressing admiration for those who navigate royal life, McKellen said, “Hats off to anyone who manages to stay sane in that world. Like the Duke of Edinburgh managed to do, although even he was deeply, deeply eccentric, and I suspect deeply unhappy.” He similarly characterized King Charles as “clearly damaged,” indicating a belief that the unique pressures of royal life take a toll on mental well-being.
Comments on Prince Harry
Among McKellen’s remarks, he also weighed in on Prince Harry and his ongoing estrangement from the royal family. Although he expressed support for Harry, he criticized the Duke of Sussex, suggesting that he may not have the intelligence or the right social network to effectively navigate his situation. “As for Harry, he’s probably not bright enough or doesn’t have the right friends to really help himself,” McKellen opined.
Despite his candidness, McKellen acknowledged Harry’s past romantic prospects, noting that he had his choice of partners. “Mind you, he had the pick of all the pretty women in the world. I hope he’s got the right one,” he added.
Recovering from an On-Stage Accident
This candid interview comes on the heels of an accident McKellen experienced while performing on stage. In June 2023, he fell during a performance of “Player Kings” at the Noel Coward Theatre in London, which resulted in him being hospitalized for injuries to his wrist and vertebrae. Following the incident, which occurred mid-scene, he expressed concerns about returning to public life and noted that the experience was traumatic.
McKellen stated his ongoing health challenges since the fall, explaining, “I’ve relived that fall countless times. It was horrible. I thought it was the end of something. It was very upsetting.” Despite his injuries, he emphasized that he remains committed to acting and looks forward to returning to the stage when fully recovered.
Discussing the fall, McKellen recounted how it disrupted not just his performance but the entire show. “I cried out in pain and was calling for help when I fell off the stage,” he said, indicating the severity of the incident. He reassured fans and well-wishers that his injuries are healing, with encouragement from his medical team for a complete recovery.
Acknowledgment of Support and Future Prospects
Throughout his recovery process, McKellen has received messages of support from fans and colleagues alike. He has expressed gratitude for this encouragement, which helps motivate his healing journey. In recent updates on social media, he assured his followers that he is on the mend and appreciates the continued dedication of the cast, including his understudy David Semark, in his absence.
McKellen shares his thoughts about the royal family and his own life experiences. He is open and strong as he works on recovering and looks back at his long career. Even now, he is an important person in both the entertainment world and conversations people have in public.
