Ian McKellen — film and theatre legend, Gandalf the Grey, and absolute queer icon — is encouraging actors to “get into the sunshine” and not hide who they are.

English actor Ian McKellen called on closeted gay actors to “come out” and “get into the sunshine” in an interview published Sunday in The Times of London.

Sir Ian McKellen isn’t mincing words when it comes to sexuality. The veteran actor, 85, who came out as gay in 1988, has made his feelings very clear about young people, particularly actors, who choose to stay closeted rather than being open and honest about their sexual preferences.

Ian McKellen is encouraging famous queer people to come out of the closet — and not everyone is taking too kindly to the suggestion. The legendary actor recently spoke with The Times about about Christopher Marlowe’s Edward II.

Working with Evans, as well as gay actor Simon Russell Beale, who played the role in 1990, has McKellen reflecting on being out and in the spotlight. “You don’t have to be gay

Lord of the Rings' actor Sir Ian McKellen "never met anybody who came out [as gay] who regretted it". The #1 burger chain in America isn't Five Guys or McDonald's, according to customers. See the top 20.