In the 1980s I was in Los Angeles discussing an Anglo-US co-production of a film for television which I was producing. During the course of these discussions I had a meeting with the head of casting of one of the major US TV networks (The power behind the thrones, The long read, 26 April). I suggested Ian McKellen for the leading supporting role. The response was: “Ian who?”
As I was having other battles I didn’t pursue the matter, intending to return to it the following day when I had another meeting scheduled with her. At that meeting she opened by telling me she had a suggestion for that role. When I inquired who might that be she replied: “Ian McKellen.” Naturally I thanked her and said I thought it an excellent choice and we agreed to offer it to him. It might be of interest to note that the previous evening Ian had dined at the White House.
David Conroy
London
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