Ian McKellen seems eager to revive his iconic Gandalf character from Lord of the Rings as long as he's not six feet under.

In a recent interview with The Times, he discussed being mortal and what he thinks of playing the part in The Hunt for Gollum movie. It sounds as though he's already prepping for the role that he's well-known for — even if he's not officially a part of it.

The actor has grown long white locks for it and joyously proclaimed, “I haven't shaved in months.”

That said, there's nothing solidified yet about his return for the Peter Jackson-produced film that will be directed by Andy Serkis.

“But there is no script, there is no offer, there is no plan,” he continued. However, when asked if he'd be interested in the part, he added, “If I'm alive.”

Death was a big topic in this discussion for the 85-year-old actor.

“You are aware that this life doesn't go on forever,” he stated at the beginning of the interview. “If you want to know that you are mortal, you just have to look at your address book. And so when a script comes through, or the hint of an offer, you think, ‘This might be my last job. No. I'm not doing that.'”

He adds, “So if Falstaff is my last job, I'd better get it right, hadn't I?”

He's referring to the part of Falstaff in Player Kings, which is directed by Robert Icke and consists of a condensed Henry IV, Part I, and Part II by Shakespeare.

About the role, he said, “I never got Falstaff. I never thought he was particularly funny. But Rob [Icke] has a honey tongue. He pointed out that Falstaff is a thoroughly objectionable person: He's a liar and a hypocrite, a glutton, a drunk, careless with his relationships. He must have some sort of charm, though. He can make people laugh. But he's a very disappointed man. Several times he calls himself old, so there are all these negatives which you are putting against the standard, laughing fat-man Toby-jug idea of Falstaff.”

About The Hunt for Gollum

As noted above, whether McKellen will return for The Hunt for Gollum is unknown. That said, according to Variety, the movie is set to be released in 2026. It's currently in the early stages of development with Fran Walsh and Philippa Boyens onboard as producers. So, if he is part of the film, we should know fairly soon.

Jackson, Walsh, and Boyens said, “It's an honor and a privilege to travel back to Middle-earth with our good friend and collaborator, Andy Serkis, who has unfinished business with that Stinker — Gollum! As lifelong fans of Professor Tolkien's vast mythology, we are proud to be working with Mike De Luca, Pam Abdy, and the entire team at Warner Bros. on another epic adventure.”

It's unclear what the plot will be and who is starring in the new Lord of the Rings film. But, as long as Ian McKellen is alive and kicking, it would be great to have him return as Gandalf. He's already dressing for the part.