Sir Ian McKellen joins cast of The Da Vinci Code

Ian McKellen has joined Tom Hanks and Audrey Tautou in the upcoming screen adaptation of the international best seller The Da Vinci Code, reports Variety. The out actor will play Sir Teabing, a wealthy man who helps Hanks's character in his search for the Holy Grail. Also joining the cast is Alfred Molina, star of Prick Up Your Ears and the recent Broadway revival of Fiddler on the Roof. Director Ron Howard will begin shooting in June; the film is expected to open May 19, 2006.