Sir Ian McKellen warns fans about 'fraudulent impersonator'

Sir Ian McKellen has warned fans after an “fraudulent impersonator” apparently pretended to be him at a signing event - by wearing a face mask.

The Lord Of The Rings and X-Men star, 82, posted a message on Instagram saying that he had learned that a man impersonating him had approached a promoter in Kent with the offer of a “private signing”.

Hundreds of fans are thought to have paid between £75 and £100 to send in items to be autographed by Sir Ian.

But when the event took place it seems the person signing the items was actually an imposter who wore a cap and face mask to hide the fact that he wasn't the screen legend.

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The items were given the industry standard authentication approval but some fans became suspicious and raised it with the event organiser Smugglers Entertainments Ltd.

Sir Ian has now confirmed he has never attended paid signings.

He said on Instagram: "I have been made aware that a man impersonating me, and two women posing as my representatives have recently approached a promoter in Kent, with the offer of a 'private signing' by Ian McKellen.

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"I am very sorry for anyone who has sent in photos and items to be signed by this fraudulent impersonator.

"I understand that the promoter has offered to make refunds as soon as possible.

"To be clear, I have never attended paid signings. I do sign for charity and for individuals who submit items directly to me."

The promoter of the event for Smugglers Entertainments Ltd said he was now taking legal advice after initially believing the man in the mask was Sir Ian.

It is understood the alleged imposter was signed up by Smugglers and paid thousands for attending the event.

Details of the alleged scam initially came in the form of several public Facebook posts from a representative of Smugglers.

The man apologised to fans for “being taken for a fool” and promised he would “do everything now I can to get this sorted”.

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