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.

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.

Screen and stage veteran Sir Ian McKellen urges young gay actors to come out, liking their situation to star footballers in the UK premier league. The English actor, most famous for playing wizard Gandalf in Peter Jackson’s epic Lord of the Rings franchise, told The Times of London newspaper:

Ian McKellen said in a new interview that he hopes more LGBTQ+ actors embrace their sexuality, explaining that 'being in the closet is silly.'

Sir Ian McKellen made waves when he came out as gay in 1988, and encouraged other stars hiding their sexuality to take a brave step and 'get into the sunshine'

I feel sorry for any famous person who feels they can’t come out. Being in the closet is silly — there’s no need for it. Don’t listen to your advisers, listen to your heart. Listen to your gay friends who know better.

Ian McKellen has urged other LGBTQ+ actors to come out as he said "being in the closet is silly" and highlighted the lack of gay Oscar winners.

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.

Ian McKellen has offered an encouraging message to actors who haven’t yet come out of the closet, insisting that he hasn’t “met anybody who came out who regretted it.” The beloved star shared his thoughts on closeted actors during a recent interview with The Times of London.