Ian McKellen, 86, Embraces the Moment, Not Legacy

The legendary actor discusses his new film 'The Christophers' and not worrying about how he'll be remembered.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:55pm

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An abstract close-up image of a well-worn artist's palette in muted earth tones, conveying the accumulated weight and texture of a lifetime of creative work.The patina of a veteran artist's tools reflects a lifetime of creative expression.NYC Today

In a wide-ranging interview, acclaimed actors Ian McKellen, 86, and Michaela Coel, 38, discuss their new buddy comedy 'The Christophers,' directed by Steven Soderbergh. McKellen reflects on his storied career and not being concerned with his legacy, while Coel shares her perspective on dealing with criticism as an artist.

Why it matters

The film examines the complex relationship between art, criticism, and mortality, themes that resonate with both veteran and rising talents in the entertainment industry. McKellen's candid comments on not worrying about his legacy provide an insightful counterpoint to the industry's frequent focus on an artist's lasting impact.

The details

In 'The Christophers,' McKellen plays an ailing, ornery artist who hires a young forger, played by Coel, to secretly copy his paintings before his death. The film follows their prickly relationship and the gamble of meeting one's heroes. McKellen, a two-time Oscar nominee, says he's learned to tune out critics over his nearly seven-decade career, while Coel has found negative reviews to be 'quite triggering' in the past.

  • McKellen injured his neck and wrist in a stage fall in 2024.
  • The Christophers is set to be released in theaters nationwide on April 17, 2026.
  • Coel's other spring 2026 film, Mother Mary, is scheduled for release on April 24.

The players

Ian McKellen

An acclaimed 86-year-old British actor known for his roles in films like The Lord of the Rings and Gods and Monsters. He has been in the entertainment industry for nearly seven decades.

Michaela Coel

A 38-year-old British actress and writer who has garnered critical acclaim for her work in shows like I May Destroy You. She stars alongside McKellen in The Christophers.

Steven Soderbergh

The acclaimed American filmmaker who directed The Christophers.

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What they’re saying

“I know when I'm being good and it's not all the time. I'm my own worst critic. I also can defend myself and understand that the critics have got it wrong, but I've had some scorchingly bad reviews.”

— Ian McKellen, Actor

“In my early innocent brain, I was like, 'Oh, I'm going to go on Twitter where everyone's going to say, 'Well done! You managed to finish the show!' Afterward, I learned, 'Oh, don't look at that.' I think people put things online that they sometimes don't even think themselves.”

— Michaela Coel, Actress

What’s next

McKellen is set to reprise his role as Gandalf in an upcoming Lord of the Rings movie, and he will also play Jacob Marley in a Christmas Carol adaptation with Johnny Depp.

The takeaway

McKellen's candid comments about not worrying over his legacy provide a refreshing perspective in an industry often preoccupied with an artist's lasting impact. His focus on the present moment and embracing the joy of performing resonates as a valuable lesson for both established and aspiring creatives.