 After the death of Richard Harris (I) (qv), many actors were  considered for the vacant role of Albus Dumbledore.  Christopher Lee (I) (qv) was in the frame for a while, and there  was a rumor (reported in many newspapers) that Ian McKellen (qv)  was also considered. The Harris family wanted Peter  OToole (I) (qv) for the role but OToole declined.  Richard Attenborough (qv) also lobbied for the role but was  ultimately turned down.