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Hugh Jackman Sings 'Happy Birthday' for Ian McKellen's 80th

Jaimie-lee Prince
By Jaimie-lee Prince
May 28, 2019
08:42 P.M.

Hugh Jackman led a stadium of voices in singing Happy Birthday to Ian McKellen, his former "X-Men" co-star.

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Jackman was bringing down the house at the Manchester Arena on Saturday for a performance of his one-man spectacle "The Man, The Music, The Show."

According to Page Six, at least 50,000 attendees were present the event. So when Jackman asked them to join him in singing Happy Birthday, the arena roared to life.

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Speaking into the camera, Jackman said:

"I'm sorry I can't make your party, Ian. But I think I might annoy about 50,000 people."

With that, he panned the camera to show the audience and they all sang Happy Birthday to McKellen, who just turned 80 years old. "Love you, man!" he said as he blew a kiss and ended the clip.

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Known for his role as Magneto in the popular comic to film series, McKellen also received birthday wishes from his former co-star Patrick Stewart.

Professor X posted a photograph taken on his wedding day with McKellen standing next to him and his bride. He captioned it:

“Happy 80th birthday wishes to Ian McKellen! Sunny and I are grateful for all the love over the years, whether as a dear friend, minister at our wedding, or colleague on screen and stage. P.S. Sunny Ozell says you look gorgeous in a morning suit.”

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Jackman is capturing hearts with his showings which were inspired by his musical film, "The Greatest Showman." In March, he sang at the 2019 Brit Awards accompanied by other stars.

Aerial dancers and circus acts littered the stage as Jackman reprised his role as PT Barnum and belted out "The Greatest Show," a song from the hit movie.

The opening number of the awards show perfectly set the mood for a thrilling night at The O2 Arena. Online, people praised the performance of the former Wolverine.

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