The similarity in vocal delivery between Gandalf and Saruman, characters from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings, arises primarily from the actors portraying them. Both Ian McKellen, as Gandalf, and Christopher Lee, as Saruman, were classically trained British actors with distinctive, resonant voices. Their shared background contributes to a comparable gravitas and authoritative tone, lending a certain similarity to their speech patterns.
This vocal resemblance, intentional or not, reinforces the narrative connection between the two characters. Initially, Saruman held a position of authority within the White Council, akin to Gandalf. Their similar vocal qualities subtly underscore this shared history and their initial alignment. Furthermore, it heightens the dramatic irony as Saruman’s descent into darkness contrasts against Gandalf’s unwavering commitment to good, making their diverging paths more impactful.
