Ian McKellen: The Biography
Garry O'Connor
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Author: Publication Year: Publisher: Format: Dimensions: Number of Pages: ISBN: |
Ian McKellen: The Biography
Garry O'Connor 2019 Orion Export Trade Paperback 16.18 x 3.2 x 24.29 cm 368 9787474608527 |
Sir Ian McKellen's life journey is a rare tapestry woven with remarkable achievements that encompass both immense commercial success and lauded Shakespearian performances, evoking a blend of admiration and fondness. His global acclaim and the honor of knighthood bestowed by Queen Elizabeth II, along with the prestigious Companionship of Honour, attests to his iconic stature. Beyond the limelight, he emerges as an unwavering advocate for LGBT rights, solidifying his significance as an influencer on a social front.
While Sir Ian McKellen is widely recognized for his iconic portrayal of Gandalf in "Lord of the Rings," Garry O'Connor's biography delves deep into the persona behind the actor, presenting a narrative of perpetual evolution and a captivating work in progress. O'Connor's candid depiction of McKellen's journey encompasses elements that might be provocative to his admirers, even unveiling explosive revelations, owing to McKellen's knack for astonishing and defying expectations. The author's personal connection, having directed McKellen in early roles, imparts a unique perspective to this intimate, unabashedly forthright, and endearingly affectionate biography. Its lasting value mirrors McKellen's own timeless essence, painting a comprehensive portrait of an extraordinary genius of our era.
Marking a definitive biography of Sir Ian McKellen, composed by the accomplished biographer Garry O'Connor, this narrative captures a pivotal turning point in 2001 when Ian McKellen donned the robe and hat of Gandalf, forever captivating the hearts of Tolkien enthusiasts worldwide. Prior to his Middle Earth venture, McKellen had already etched a formidable career, making his West End debut in 1964 and later conquering Broadway in 1980 with his portrayal of Antonio Salieri in Peter Shaffer's Tony Award-winning play "Amadeus."
His legacy encompasses a staggering four hundred plays and films, underscoring his unique status as a luminary whose influential contributions extend far beyond the realm of stage and screen. From his monumental roles such as Macbeth, Iago, King Lear, to his unwavering commitment to political activism championing gay equality, Ian McKellen emerges as a multi-faceted phenomenon. Garry O'Connor's "Ian McKellen: A Biography" embarks on a profound exploration of the actor's soul, chronicling his most triumphant moments on stage and unraveling his personal narrative. This biography encapsulates the essence of what propels a great actor, as McKellen's life story unfolds as an ever-evolving drama, and this biography stands as its next captivating chapter.
While Sir Ian McKellen is widely recognized for his iconic portrayal of Gandalf in "Lord of the Rings," Garry O'Connor's biography delves deep into the persona behind the actor, presenting a narrative of perpetual evolution and a captivating work in progress. O'Connor's candid depiction of McKellen's journey encompasses elements that might be provocative to his admirers, even unveiling explosive revelations, owing to McKellen's knack for astonishing and defying expectations. The author's personal connection, having directed McKellen in early roles, imparts a unique perspective to this intimate, unabashedly forthright, and endearingly affectionate biography. Its lasting value mirrors McKellen's own timeless essence, painting a comprehensive portrait of an extraordinary genius of our era.
Marking a definitive biography of Sir Ian McKellen, composed by the accomplished biographer Garry O'Connor, this narrative captures a pivotal turning point in 2001 when Ian McKellen donned the robe and hat of Gandalf, forever captivating the hearts of Tolkien enthusiasts worldwide. Prior to his Middle Earth venture, McKellen had already etched a formidable career, making his West End debut in 1964 and later conquering Broadway in 1980 with his portrayal of Antonio Salieri in Peter Shaffer's Tony Award-winning play "Amadeus."
His legacy encompasses a staggering four hundred plays and films, underscoring his unique status as a luminary whose influential contributions extend far beyond the realm of stage and screen. From his monumental roles such as Macbeth, Iago, King Lear, to his unwavering commitment to political activism championing gay equality, Ian McKellen emerges as a multi-faceted phenomenon. Garry O'Connor's "Ian McKellen: A Biography" embarks on a profound exploration of the actor's soul, chronicling his most triumphant moments on stage and unraveling his personal narrative. This biography encapsulates the essence of what propels a great actor, as McKellen's life story unfolds as an ever-evolving drama, and this biography stands as its next captivating chapter.
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Author Biography
Garry O'Connor, born in Edgware, London, England, has established himself as a prominent biographer and novelist, renowned for his compelling writings focused on both theatrical luminaries and literary figures.
During the early 1960s, O'Connor embarked on his writing journey by contributing a Charles Greville column to the Daily Mail. His literary trajectory led him to become the television critic for Queen Magazine from 1965 to 1966, succeeding the notable Sir Angus Wilson. O'Connor's passion for the arts extended to his role as the Paris arts correspondent for the Financial Times while residing in Paris. Returning to London, he served as a dedicated daily critic from 1966 to 1973, making regular contributions to esteemed publications like Plays and Players, Theatre Quarterly, and the TLS. His reviews, features, and interviews graced the pages of publications including The Times, The Sunday Times, and The Mail on Sunday.
In 1976, O'Connor marked his literary debut with "French Theatre Today," followed by his inaugural biography in 1979, focusing on his great-aunt, Dame Maggie Teyte. This marked the inception of a prolific career in biographical writing, including notable works such as biographies of Alec Guinness, Paul Scofield, Ralph Richardson, William Shakespeare, Tony and Cherie Blair, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI. Among his most renowned works are his theatre biographies and his controversial exploration of Peggy Ashcroft's life in 1997. O'Connor's written legacy extends beyond borders, with translations of his works into languages such as Polish and Swedish, showcasing the international impact of his literary contributions.
Garry O'Connor, born in Edgware, London, England, has established himself as a prominent biographer and novelist, renowned for his compelling writings focused on both theatrical luminaries and literary figures.
During the early 1960s, O'Connor embarked on his writing journey by contributing a Charles Greville column to the Daily Mail. His literary trajectory led him to become the television critic for Queen Magazine from 1965 to 1966, succeeding the notable Sir Angus Wilson. O'Connor's passion for the arts extended to his role as the Paris arts correspondent for the Financial Times while residing in Paris. Returning to London, he served as a dedicated daily critic from 1966 to 1973, making regular contributions to esteemed publications like Plays and Players, Theatre Quarterly, and the TLS. His reviews, features, and interviews graced the pages of publications including The Times, The Sunday Times, and The Mail on Sunday.
In 1976, O'Connor marked his literary debut with "French Theatre Today," followed by his inaugural biography in 1979, focusing on his great-aunt, Dame Maggie Teyte. This marked the inception of a prolific career in biographical writing, including notable works such as biographies of Alec Guinness, Paul Scofield, Ralph Richardson, William Shakespeare, Tony and Cherie Blair, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Benedict XVI. Among his most renowned works are his theatre biographies and his controversial exploration of Peggy Ashcroft's life in 1997. O'Connor's written legacy extends beyond borders, with translations of his works into languages such as Polish and Swedish, showcasing the international impact of his literary contributions.