If Amazon is planning to cast Gandalf for their upcoming “Lord of the Rings” TV show, Sir Ian McKellen wants first dibs.
In November, the studio made a deal to adapt to series J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved novels, a franchise that many associate first and foremost with McKellen’s badass wizard. During an appearance on Graham Norton’s BBC Radio 2 show on Saturday, McKellen was asked if it will bother him if another actor puts on his wizard hat. He responded, “What do you mean, another Gandalf?”
“I haven’t said yes because I haven’t been asked,” McKellen added. “But are you suggesting that someone else is going to play it? Gandalf is over 7000 years old, so I’m not too old.”
Also Read: 'Lord of the Rings' TV Series Adaptation Lands Multi-Season Commitment at Amazon
Though the multi-season production commitment (which also includes the potential for spin-off series) is huge news for fans, the books have already been heavily reproduced in Peter Jackson’s equally-cherished series of films.
The original series will be produced by Amazon Studios in cooperation with the Tolkien Estate and Trust, HarperCollins and New Line Cinema, a division of Warner Bros. Entertainment.
Set in Middle Earth, the small-screen “LOTR” will explore new storylines preceding Tolkien’s “The Fellowship of the Ring,” per Amazon.
Also Read: Warner Bros. in Early Talks on 'The Lord of the Rings' TV Adaptation
In case you forgot how awesome McKellen is as Gandalf, you can watch a clip of one extremely iconic “Lord of the Rings” scene below. You’re welcome.
thisisnotkylie on December 17th, 2017 at 05:34 UTC »
I wonder if the people at Amazon are aware that he is not, in fact, a wizard.
A-Bronze-Tale on December 17th, 2017 at 05:23 UTC »
I'd be surprised if Amazon doesn't let him reprise the role if he's really open to it and they have no one casted. His casting alone would give more credibility to this project.
TacoCommander on December 17th, 2017 at 05:04 UTC »
One does not simply recast Gandalf. I hope he gets the role.