Acclaimed British actor Sir Ian McKellen has leveled harsh criticism against the royal family, particularly the late Queen Elizabeth II, accusing her of being "quite rude" during their encounter. McKellen also expressed concerns about the mental health of the royal family members, including King Charles.
Acclaimed British actor Sir Ian McKellen, known for his iconic roles in "Lord of the Rings" and "X-Men," has stirred controversy with his scathing remarks about the royal family, including the late Queen Elizabeth II. In a recent interview with The Times of London, McKellen shared an allegedly unpleasant encounter with the monarch during an awards ceremony.
McKellen recalled the incident where he received a medal for acting and claimed to have had a heated exchange with Queen Elizabeth. "On the few occasions I met her, she was quite rude," he stated. He recounted that upon receiving the award, the Queen remarked, "You've been doing this for an awfully long time." To which McKellen responded, "Well, not as long as you."
Sir Ian McKellen Slams Royal Family, Claims Late Queen Elizabeth Was "Quite Rude
McKellen's witty reply earned him a "royal smile" from the Queen, but he alleged that her subsequent question, "Does anyone still actually go to the theater?," was disrespectful. "That's bloody rude when you're giving someone a medal for acting," he asserted. "It meant, 'Does anyone care a f--- about you because I don't. Now off you go!'"
McKellen further elaborated on the encounter, demonstrating the Queen's peculiar handshake. "That was her handshake, and it meant, 'Go! Go!'" he explained. He claimed that she had shoved his hand away with "some force" when they parted ways.
Sir Ian McKellen Slams Royal Family, Claims Late Queen Elizabeth Was "Quite Rude
The veteran actor also expressed his belief that Queen Elizabeth had become "quite mad" towards the end of her life. He suggested that the pressures of royal duty had taken a toll on her mental well-being.
McKellen's criticisms extended beyond Queen Elizabeth to encompass the entire British monarchy. "Imagine being born into the royal family," he remarked. "I've been in public life a bit, but these people are in prison. They can't do anything normal. Can you imagine having to be nice to everyone you talk to?"
Sir Ian McKellen Slams Royal Family, Claims Late Queen Elizabeth Was "Quite Rude
He questioned the sanity of individuals born into such a restrictive institution. "Hats off to anyone who manages to stay sane in that world," he said. "Like the [late] Duke of Edinburgh managed to do, although even he was deeply, deeply eccentric and, I suspect, deeply unhappy. Same with the present king. He sort of survives, but he is clearly damaged."
McKellen acknowledged that he had taken Prince Harry's side in his estrangement from the royal family. However, he also expressed doubts about Harry's intelligence. "As for Harry, he's probably not bright enough or doesn't have the right friends to really help himself," McKellen stated. "Mind you, he had the pick of all the pretty women in the world. I hope he's got the right one."
Sir Ian McKellen Slams Royal Family, Claims Late Queen Elizabeth Was "Quite Rude
Despite his criticisms, McKellen expressed sympathy for the royal family's well-being. "Imagine being born into the royal family," he repeated. "I've been in public life a bit, but these people are in prison."
Representatives for Sir Ian McKellen and Prince Harry did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding his remarks. A spokesperson for King Charles declined to comment.
Sir Ian McKellen Slams Royal Family, Claims Late Queen Elizabeth Was "Quite Rude
McKellen's interview came after he suffered a fall during a performance in London in June, leading to hospitalization. The actor was performing in "Player Kings" when he toppled off the stage during a fight scene. The rest of the performance was canceled, and the theater was evacuated.
Sir Ian McKellen is a renowned actor with a distinguished career spanning over five decades. He is best known for his iconic portrayal of Gandalf in the "Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" film trilogies, as well as his performances in the "X-Men" franchise and the live adaptation of "Beauty and the Beast." He is also an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
Sir Ian McKellen Slams Royal Family, Claims Late Queen Elizabeth Was "Quite Rude
McKellen's comments about the royal family have garnered mixed reactions. Some have applauded his honesty and willingness to challenge the status quo, while others have criticized him for being disrespectful towards the monarchy and the late Queen Elizabeth. The controversy surrounding his remarks is likely to continue, sparking further discussions about the British monarchy and its relationship with the public.
