England receive powerful rallying cry from Sir Ian McKellen actor ahead of DR Congo World Cup clash

• Legendary stage and film actor Sir Ian McKellen, 87, has released a "love letter to England" video to rally the national football team and the supporting public.
• The video was shared ahead of England's first World Cup knock-out match against DR Congo, featuring McKellen's distinctive voice over black-and-white images of England.
• Written by playwright James Graham, the short film poetically explores England's identity, asking "Who are ya?" and highlighting the nation's spirit and resilience.
• The initiative aims to encourage viewers not only to support the team but also to participate in the National Conversation campaign.
• The National Conversation invites members of the public to submit 60-second voice notes by 31 August, sharing their views and visions on what unites the country.

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‘We are the lions that roar’: Sir Ian McKellen shares ‘love letter to England’ ahead of World Cup knock-out