McKellen says ‘Lord of the Rings’ filmmakers ‘need to move fast’ if they want him back as Gandalf

LONDON — Sir Ian McKellen is keen to reprise his role as Gandalf in the “Lord of the Rings” franchise, but it needs to happen soon.

“I’ve just heard that there are more films coming and that Gandalf is going to be involved and they’re hoping I’ll play him,” the 85-year-old told Big Issue magazine. “When? I don’t know. What’s the script? It’s not written yet. So they’ve got to be quick!”

McKellen fell in June during a performance of “Player Kings,” a new version of Shakespeare’s “Henry IV,” in London.

He told the publication that he wonders if the fall was because he was old.

“I’m trying to convince myself it was an accident,” McKellen said.

“I feel physically weak, which is why I do exercises,” he added. “And of course it’s emotional. We all stumble throughout our lives, but when you get to my age, you can’t always get up.”

The legendary actor has starred in several ‘Lord of the Rings’ films and likes to keep busy.

“I usually work or prepare for work, I’ve been doing that a little bit, wondering what the best plan would be,” he said. “I’m going to take the rest of the year off. Not because I have to, but just because I want to.”