Sir Ian McKellen will not be returning when the Player Kings play resumes in the West End on Thursday after he suffered a horrific fall from the stage. The 85-year-old actor fell from the stage on Monday, with audience members hearing a 'blood-curdling scream' from him. He was rushed to the hospital and is currently recovering.
He lost his footing during a fight scene while portraying John Falstaff at the Noel Coward Theatre in London. They cancelled the rest of the play and later cancelled Tuesday's and Wednesday's run as well. A post on social media confirmed his understudy David Semark will go on instead of him on June 20.
The statement said: "David Semark will be playing the role of Sir John Falstaff for the final three scheduled performances of Player Kings at the Noel Coward Theatre in London while Sir Ian McKellen recuperates following his fall on Monday (1)8 June. “We look forward to Ian returning to the production, which begins a national tour in Bristol on Wednesday, July 3, before visiting Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.” The final London performances of Player Kings will be taking place this Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Amid his recovery, Sir Ian also shared his support for the NHS on X, formerly known as Twitter , Sir Ian wrote: "I want to thank everyone for their kind messages and support. Since the accident, during a performance of Player Kings last night, my injuries have been diagnosed and treated by a series of experts, specialists and nurses workin.
