McKellen reflects on Page’s “communication difficulties” during the production of “X-Men”.
Ian McKellen used a recent interview with Attitude Magazine to show support for his “X-Men” co-star Elliot Page after he became a transgender in a social media post in December. Page joined the “X-Men” franchise as the mutant Kitty Pryde in “X-Men: The Last Stand”, which marked McKellen’s third film playing Magneto after “X-Men” and “X2: X-Men United “. The two actors worked together again on “X-Men: Days of Future Past”.
“Everything gets better when you come out because you gain self-confidence,” said McKellen, reflecting on his own experience as a gay man in Hollywood. “So you’re better off in terms of relationships, friends of all kinds, family, if you’re lucky. And, in my case, I think that in all cases, their performance is bound to change and improve. “
McKellen regretted not having noticed the battle for Page’s identity when they worked together in the “X-Men” films. The Magneto actor recalled that Page was quiet on the set and didn’t say anything, which is not the Page he saw later in life when Page left (first as a gay in 2014, then as a transgender in 2020) and started using his voice to advocate on behalf of gay and transgender rights.
“I remember Elliot Page, in one of the ‘X-Men’, sitting as close as we are now. And I had to speak up when they were done, and I couldn’t hear what they were saying, ”said McKellen. “Nobody could hear what they were saying. So, I said, ‘Look, if you can’t speak, would you mind when you’re done talking, just lowering your hand so I know when you’re done talking?’ “
McKellen continued: “And then they left [as gay] years later and suddenly you couldn’t stop talking. You heard everything. And now … they are Elliot. And I am very happy for Elliot. And so disappointed in myself that I did not detect how difficult their communication was. “
Elliot Page became transgender on December 1, writing on social media: “I can’t express how remarkable it is to finally love who I am enough to seek out my authentic self. I have been infinitely inspired by so many in the trans community. Thank you for your courage, your generosity and unremitting work to make this world a more inclusive and compassionate place. I will offer all the support I can and continue to fight for a more loving and egalitarian society. “
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