'Potter' People May Tap Sir Ian For Next Film
Sir Ian McKellen
There are indications that Sir Ian McKellen may be ready to join the cast of the "Harry Potter" series. He's been best known recently for his portrayal of Gandalf in the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy. Now, in England, the ITV network is reporting that the actor may take over the role started by the late actor Richard Harris, Professor Albus Dumbledore, in the third Harry Potter movie. The film will be called "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban." Additionally, there are reports in people.com that Warner Bros. has been trying to find a suitable replacement for Harris -- who died several months ago from complications of Hodgkin's disease. Filming of the third Potter film is scheduled to begin sometime in March. Before becoming a major film star, McKellen was best known for Shakespearian portrayals on the legitimate stage.