Sir Ian McKellen is doing “very very well” following a fall from a West End stage on Monday, according to his understudy. The veteran stage and screen actor, 85, was portraying John Falstaff in a production of Player Kings at the Noel Coward Theatre when he lost his footing in a fight scene and fell from the stage. It was announced on Thursday that Sir Ian would not be performing again in London while he has physiotherapy and recuperates.
Understudy David Semark, 52, is taking his place as Falstaff. David Semark, 52, has taken Sir Ian McKellen’s place as Falstaff (PA) Semark said: “The wonderful Sir Ian McKelle called me to tell me what was going on, which was amazing, and [he] has been incredibly supportive throughout the rehearsals. “The first person I heard it from was Sir Ian.
“We then had a discussion about the role. I have worked alongside him for months, so we get on, he’s a friend.” He continued: “Obviously my first thought is for my friend, and the wonderful human being that is Sir Ian McKellen.
He called me to tell me what was going on, which was amazing, and has been incredibly supportive throughout the rehearsals. “I definitely couldn’t have had the courage to go on there tonight if I didn’t feel that he was behind me with me. “But I am holding a place open for Sir Ian.
I walk in the shadow of greatness...
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com/6WvfOeKlmR — Player Kings (@PlayerKingsPlay) June 20, 2024 “I’ve stolen 90% of what he does in that show shamel.
