Net Worth Ranker
What is Ian McKellen’s Net Worth?
Sir Ian McKellen, a celebrated English actor, has accumulated a substantial net worth of $60 million throughout his illustrious career. This wealth is a testament to his enduring presence in theatre, film, and television, spanning over six decades. While the exact breakdown of his net worth isn’t publicly available, it’s derived from a combination of sources including acting salaries, potential royalties, and real estate investments.
Ian McKellen’s Career and Earnings
McKellen’s journey began in the theatre, where he gained prominence with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal National Theatre. While specific earnings from his early theatre roles aren’t publicly documented, his consistent presence on stage established a strong foundation for his future success. By the 1970s, he was widely regarded as one of Britain’s leading theatre actors.
His transition to film included a role in 1969’s “A Touch of Love,” followed by a period where he focused primarily on theatre. He returned to film in the 1980s, but it was the 1990s that saw his cinematic breakthrough. Roles in “Six Degrees of Separation” and “Last Action Hero” raised his profile before his critical acclaim for “And the Band Played On” in 1993 and his co-production of “Richard III.” Specific salary details for these roles are not publicly available.
One of McKellen’s most notable roles came in 1999 when he portrayed Magneto in “X-Men.” The success of the “X-Men” franchise led to McKellen reprising his role in multiple sequels. Concurrent with filming “X-Men,” McKellen was cast as Gandalf in Peter Jackson’s “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. “The Fellowship of the Ring” was released in 2001, followed by two sequels, and he later reprised the role in “The Hobbit” trilogy, starting in 2012.
His salary for the first two “Lord of the Rings” movies amounted to $13 million, with $6.2 million for the first film and $7.8 million for the second. While his salary for the third film was not officially confirmed, it is estimated to be in the $18-20 million range. Taking $18 million as an estimate, McKellen earned approximately $31 million for his work on the original “Lord of the Rings” trilogy alone. No information is available regarding potential backend profit participation or royalties from these highly successful films.
Beyond these significant film roles, McKellen has appeared in various television shows, including “Coronation Street,” “Extras,” “The Prisoner,” “Saturday Night Live,” and “Dr. Who.” In 2006, he played a role in “The Da Vinci Code,” a box-office success. Towards the end of the 2010s, he appeared in films such as “The Dresser,” Disney’s live-action “Beauty and the Beast,” and “The Good Liar.” Specific salary details for these roles have not been publicly released.
Real Estate and Personal Investments
In 2011, reports surfaced that McKellen was purchasing a 300-year-old pub in East London. The establishment, frequented by Charles Dickens, held special significance for McKellen. Financial details about the acquisition and ongoing operation of the pub are not publicly accessible. However, owning a business in London may contribute to his overall net worth. Further details on his personal investments are not publicly accessible.
Declined Offer for Sean Parker Wedding
In 2013, Facebook billionaire Sean Parker reportedly spent $10 million on a Lord of the Rings-themed wedding. He offered McKellen $1.5 million to officiate the ceremony dressed as Gandalf. McKellen declined the offer, stating, “I am sorry, Gandalf doesn’t do weddings.” This anecdote illustrates the high value placed on McKellen’s association with the Gandalf character, but it also showcases his personal principles. Specific details about other endorsement deals or similar offers are not publicly available.
Net Worth Considerations
Ian McKellen’s $60 million net worth is primarily built upon decades of work in acting, including stage performances, film roles, and television appearances. While the specifics of his investments, royalties, and endorsements are not fully available, the data suggests a diverse portfolio contributing to his overall financial success. His iconic roles, such as Gandalf and Magneto, are pivotal factors in his long-term financial standing, but without further specific financial disclosures, a precise calculation of his wealth is not possible. McKellen’s impact goes beyond monetary achievements; he is a respected actor and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
