The actor who's starred as Magneto in the X-Men films also said he signed on for the films after director Bryan Singer explained to him that the mutant superheroes serve as an allegory for the gay community. "I was sold it by Bryan who said, 'Mutants are like gays. They're cast out by society for no good reason,'" he recalled. "And, as in all civil rights movements, they have to decide: Are they going to take the Xavier [Stewart's character] line — which is to somehow assimilate and stand up for yourself and be proud of what you are, but get on with everybody — or are you going to take the alternative view — which is, if necessary, use violence to stand up for your own rights. And that's true. I've come across that division within the gay rights movement."

McKellen noted that, according to Marvel, young Jewish, Black, and gay people are the biggest readers of the X-Men comics. "These are all people who, well, feel a little bit like mutants," he added.

As for those who still feel that way, and are living in the closet, McKellen said, "I feel sorry for anyone who feels the need to lie about themselves. That's not good for you. It doesn't lead to a happy life. And I've never met a gay person who came out and who regretted it. Never. So, my advice to anyone in the closet — it doesn't matter whether they're a teacher, or a politician, or a priest, or an actor — come out. Join the human race."

He cited the recent support one of his X-Men co-stars received after coming out as an example. "All this has come to a happy conclusion, hasn't it? With Ellen Page — Kitty Pryde — coming out. That gladdened my heart so much," he added with a smile.

"For people who are lonely ... reading that about someone whose career they follow is a little bit of a help and encouragement to them to think it does get better."