Ep 5. Sir Ian McKellen

Inside the Actors Studio is a renowned television show that features insightful interviews conducted by host James Lipton with some of the most prominent actors of our time. Season 9 episode 5, titled Sir Ian McKellen, is a must-watch for any fans of this legendary actor.

In this episode, Lipton sits down with Sir Ian McKellen, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation. McKellen has a long and successful career in both stage and screen, having played some of the most iconic roles in Shakespearean and contemporary theater. He is also well-known for his roles in major feature films such as the X-Men franchise, The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and The Hobbit trilogy.

Throughout the episode, Lipton delves into the life and career of Sir Ian McKellen, from his early days in the theater to his rise to Hollywood stardom. Viewers will gain a fascinating insight into the mind of this complex and talented actor, as Lipton probes him on everything from his acting technique and his approach to character development, to his thoughts on the state of the industry today.

Along the way, Sir Ian McKellen shares some of his most memorable experiences in the theater, including his work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and his portrayal of Shakespeare's most famous tragic hero, King Lear. He also discusses his collaborations with other great actors, including Judi Dench, Derek Jacobi, and Sir Lawrence Olivier.

But it's not just McKellen's theatrical work that is explored in depth in this episode. Viewers will also get a rare glimpse into his experience as a Hollywood actor, including his work on the set of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. McKellen opens up about the challenges of working on such massive productions, and how he approached the character of Gandalf in these epic films.

Throughout the episode, Lipton's insightful questioning challenges Sir Ian McKellen to reveal his innermost thoughts about his craft, and his answers offer a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of the greatest actors of our time. Fans of theater, film, and Sir Ian McKellen himself will not want to miss this captivating episode of Inside the Actors Studio.