Sir Ian McKellen is renowned the world over for his expertise in the acting field that has won him numerous recognitions and awards. The Oscar nominee though, is best known in the commercial cinematic space for playing two cult characters namely Gandalf from Lord of the Rings, and Magneto from X-Men.
McKellen who portrayed these two iconic roles masterfully, became hugely popular with audiences and critics worldwide. But the veteran was apprehensive that the towering physicality of Erik Lehnsherr aka Magneto as depicted in the X-Men comics was completely different to his appearance. He then requested a wardrobe change to ensure that he fit the bill.
Ian McKellen Demanded This Modification To His X-Men Character
It is impossible to imagine anyone other than Sir Ian McKellen playing the role of the powerful Magneto in the X-Men series. In partnership with the equally inimitable Patrick Stewart as Professor Xavier, the veteran actor brought emotional heft and gravitas to a pivotal role that had many nuances and shades to it.
McKellen also admitted that he took on the part as he believed the character brought something completely different to the table when compared to other comic book heroes. But one aspect of the mighty mutant that he felt he could not match up to, was the physicality of the character as depicted in the X-Men comics and animated series in the 90s. In an exclusive documentary titled McKellen: Playing the Part (via Ars Technica), he said,
“I thought at the time I wasn’t very good as Magneto, and I’ve had that confirmed. If you look at the comics, Magneto is usually drawn from a low vantage point, his legs wide apart, a superhuman body of muscles and power… then there’s me, Ian McKellen.” Being a cartoon character isn’t easy.”
The Lord of the Rings star decided that this aspect must be changed to keep the character’s original aesthetic intact. Working with the costume department, McKellen modified his look by incorporating a false muscle suit to bulk up his body. This small but significant variation ensured that Magneto’s personality took on an even more intimidating aura.
How X-Men ‘97 Is Paying Tribute To The 90s
While Ian McKellen was particular that his version of Magneto must do justice to the character who was first seen in the 90s animated series, a revival of the popular show has now hit Disney+ and is garnering a lot of hype. X-Men ‘97, which is aptly named owing to the original show which ran from 1992 to 1997, is paying tribute to its predecessor in many ways.
To begin with, the series continues from where the 1997 show ends, and follows the narrative of the X-Men who face dangerous new challenges after the loss of their leader, Professor Xavier. The animated series also took the decision to showcase the specific charm and vibe of the 90s including the 2D animation style that was integral to the original show.
In addition, many actors who were involved in voicing the characters in X-Men: The Animated Series, have been roped in for its revival as well. Some of these stars include Cal Dodd who originally played Wolverine, Lenore Zann who voiced Rogue, and George Buza who portrayed Beast.
With the first two episodes having been aired, the show is already making all the right noises with many critics on Rotten Tomatoes praising it highly by calling it Marvel’s best release. With a total of 10 episodes which will conclude on May 15th, X-Men ‘97 is well on its way to becoming a blockbuster.
X-Men ‘97 is streaming on Disney+
