Ian McKellen: UK Advised Me Not To Go To Russia Because Of Anti-Gay Laws

[Behind the Aegis]

LONDON (AP) — Actor Ian McKellen says the British government has advised him not to go to Russia because of the country's anti-gay "propaganda" law.

McKellen, known to millions as Gandalf in the "Lord of the Rings" and "Hobbit" films, told Radio Times magazine that the Foreign Office had informed him "they couldn't protect me from those laws."

The openly gay 74-year-old actor expressed disbelief that this was the case "in the land of Tchaikovsky, Diaghilev, Rudolf Nureyev — gay artists whose sexuality informed their work."

Russia has banned "propaganda of nontraditional sexual relations" aimed at anyone under 18. Penalties include fines and jail.

more: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/12/10/ian-mckellen-gay-russia-_n_4418606.html

[Fearless]

1. Seems like they are expecting trouble.

I hope he goes and shoves it in Putin's face. I hope they give Putin hell for the hell he's caused Russian LGBTers. So much can be gained for Russian LGBTers from the international spotlight.

[dickthegrouch]

2. It didn't stop Sir Elton

I hope it doesn't stop Sir Ian from going AND speaking up on behalf of the oppressed in Russia, just like Sir Elton did.