Legendary actor Ian McKellen honors Ukraine with heartfelt recitation of veteran’s poem
Ian McKellen (photo: Getty Images)
British actor Ian McKellen, on his Instagram, read a poem by Ukrainian veteran Artur Dronia, titled “First to the Corinthians”, on the anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion. His emotional performance was a powerful gesture of support for Ukraine and moved thousands of viewers on social media.
Ian McKellen supports Ukraine
The actor, known worldwide as Gandalf from The Lord of the Rings and Magneto from X-Men, recited the lines translated into English. His reading became a symbol of the love and resilience of Ukrainian military personnel.
The poem reading was especially emotional — the actor’s deep voice gave the text even greater power. Ukrainians in the comments thanked Sir McKellen for his support and solidarity on such an important date for the country.
“Brought to tears, touched the heart,” wrote users online.
Who is Ian McKellen
Ian McKellen is one of the most famous British theatre and film actors, a two-time Academy Award nominee, and a long-time recipient of prestigious theatre awards. In 1991, he was knighted by the Queen of the United Kingdom for his contribution to the arts.
He gained worldwide fame for his roles as the wise wizard Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings trilogy and the powerful mutant Magneto in the X-Men franchise. His characters have become iconic, and McKellen himself is seen as a symbol of strength, dignity, and principled stance.
Magneto (scene from X-Men)
Who is Gandalf from The Lord of the Rings
Gandalf is one of the central characters in the legendary story The Lord of the Rings. He is a wise wizard and mentor who guides the heroes in their fight against evil and inspires them not to give up, even in the darkest times.
The image of Gandalf has become a symbol of light, hope, and resilience. That is why, for many Ukrainians, McKellen’s participation in reading the veteran’s poem was especially moving — as if the legendary wizard himself were expressing words of support for Ukraine.
Gandalf (scene from The Lord of the Rings)
Read also: They never liked Russia: 9 bold stars who spoke their truth
