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Here’s Why Ian McKellen Turned Down Playing Dumbledore

Ian McKellen has revealed why, unlike every other living British actor, he never starred in the Harry Potter film series.

Ian McKellen has revealed why, unlike every other living British actor, he never starred in the Harry Potter film series.

Apparently, Richard Harris, the actor who played Dumbledore in the first two Harry Potter films, didn’t approve of him. 'Yikes.'

During a new BBC Hardline interview, McKellen said: "When [RIchard Harris] died – he played Dumbledore, the wizard – I played the real wizard [Gandalf in the Lord Of The Rings trilogy] of course – but when they called me up and said would I be interested in being in the Harry Potter films, they didn't say what part."

"I worked out what they were thinking and I couldn't. I couldn't take over the part from an actor who I'd known hadn't approved of me."

[Getty]

In the past, Harris had described McKellen, Derek Jacobi and Kenneth Branagh as "technically brilliant but passionless". 'Tell us what you really think, Richard!'

Elsewhere in the interview, McKellen spoke about how his sexuality has affected his career, and how he could have been a more successful actor had he come out sooner.

In other news, the nation’s favourite film soundtracks have been revealed. Where do you think the Harry Potter score ranked? Find out here.

Also, a real-life dementor may or may not have been spotted in the muggle world. Read more here.

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