Who is Ian McShane?

Ian McShane is a well-known British actor who has worked in both film and television industries for several decades. However, he is particularly remembered for his work in commercials. Born on September 29, 1942, in Blackburn, Lancashire, McShane started his acting career in the 1960s and worked in several British television shows and movies. However, it was his portrayal of loveable rogue Lovejoy in the BBC series of the same name that brought him international fame and critical acclaim in the 1980s.

While McShane's TV career has been illustrious, he is also known for his roles in a plethora of movies, including the popular hit movies ‘The Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,’ ‘Kung Fu Panda,’ and ‘Hellboy’ among others. But outside of his TV and movie appearances, Ian McShane has a considerable body of work as a commercial actor.

McShane's smooth and confident voice has graced advertisements for brands such as Sky broadband, British Telecom, and American Express, among others. He has even lent his voice to commercials for McDonald’s and Visa. In 2006, he lent his voice to a Guinness commercial featuring a team of “mountain men” attempting to transport a large Guinness pint up a steep hill. The campaign became a huge hit and resulted in McShane being known as the "King of the Guinness ads."

Overall, Ian McShane's career as a commercial actor has helped him to become a recognizable figure in popular culture. He has lent his unique voice and charisma to many advertisements, making him a highly sought-after commercial actor. Despite his commercial success, McShane remains an admired and versatile actor.

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