McKellen keen to be Gandalf in 'Hobbit'

Sir Ian McKellen has said that he would like to reprise the role of Gandalf if there is a movie adaptation of The Hobbit.

The film of the J.R.R. Tolkien novel has been delayed due to disputes between Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson and the production studios.

However, McKellen has claimed that he would enjoy playing the wizard again, even if Jackson isn't at the helm.

He told Reuters: "When Peter announced he had withdrawn from The Hobbit, he sent me an e-mail saying, 'Because I am not going to do it, it doesn't mean you have to do the same. Of course, you must play Gandalf whether I direct or not.'"

McKellen added: "I am glad to read that it is looking more and more likely...I would be disappointed if they didn't want to have the original Gandalf.

"I suppose if I am still functioning and working well, it is very likely I would be asked to do it and if I were, I would be very pleased to do it."