Sir Ian McKellen Launches 'BFI Presents Shakespeare On Film' - Drinks ReceptionLONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 25: Sir Ian McKellen attends the launch of “BFI Presents Shakespeare On Film” at BFI Southbank on January 25, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by David M. Benett/Dave Benett/WireImage) Veteran British thespian SIR IAN MCKELLEN has waded in to the Oscars diversity row, insisting gay actors are also shunned by awards bosses. The Lord of the Rings star was asked during a TV interview about the recent furor over the 2016 Academy Awards after several stars criticized organizers because no black actors were nominated for the major honors. He responded by admitting he has a
