Ian McKellen on playing Hamlet - Front Row

What this episode covers

50 years after last playing the Danish prince, Sir Ian McKellen is returning to the role of Hamlet, in an age, colour gender-blind production. At the age of 82, he has new insight to the character. He tells presenter John Wilson it’s clear to him Hamlet is bisexual, and how he is tackling the physical challenges of stage acting.He talks about his coming out in a BBC radio interview in 1988, how it liberated him and improved his acting. He also talks about his love of the theatre, how drama is an important aspect of British identity, and the joy of working in a company, the way his career began.Presenter: John Wilson Producer: Julian May Studio Engineer: Giles Aspen

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How long is this episode of Front Row?

This episode is 40 minutes long.

When was this Front Row episode published?

This episode was published on June 18, 2021.

What is this episode about?

50 years after last playing the Danish prince, Sir Ian McKellen is returning to the role of Hamlet, in an age, colour gender-blind production. At the age of 82, he has new insight to the character. He tells presenter John Wilson it’s clear to him...

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