Not that anyone doubted this would happen, but Ian McKellan has come forward to confirm that he will in fact be returning as Gandalf in the Hobbit movies.
Empire caught him at the Speed Racer premiere, and made him speak the words to quicken the hearts of all Middle Earth fans. “Yes, it’s true,” he said. “I spoke to Guillermo in the very room that Peter Jackson offered me the part and he confirmed that I would be reprising the role. Obviously, it’s not a part that you turn down, I loved playing Gandalf.”
I honestly didn’t think this would be an issue. He has always spoken fondly of his role of Gandalf and has repeatedly said if a Hobbit movie was to happen that he would be eager to reprise his role.
I don’t think the age thing is an issue. This is fantasy and an ancient wizard can look the same at 60 as he would at 80. Its fantasy, so I am not concered about age. He could look exactly the same and it wouldn’t make a difference to me.
But could you imagine the Hobbit without McKellen??
Good news indeed. As for Gandalf looking the same at 80 as he did at 60…I don’t remember exactly how old he is supposed to be, but I’m pretty sure he’s in the thousands somewhere…yeah…I’m a geek.
No Mckellan = No Hobbit Movie.
He was one of the best parts of the LOTR’s.
“But could you imagine the Hobbit without McKellen??”
Maybe, but I’d be a lot less interested in that version.