Gay Actors Who Play Straight Roles

5.  Sir Ian McKellan

As Magneto in the X-Men franchise (2000-2014), he is able to move metal objects with his mind. And he has battled the evils of Middle Earth as Gandalf the Grey in The Lord of the Rings franchise (2001-2014).  Earlier, in 1988, at age 49, McKellan came out publicly to protest an anti-gay law in the UK. But throughout his huge screen and stage presence, Ian McKellan’s sexual preferences were never an issue.

Ian currently lives with his partner Sean Mathias. Although most people know him for his popular film roles, he has performed mostly on stage.  In 1990, Queen Elizabeth II knighted him for his work and efforts in the arts.