Sir Ian McKellen will not be returning to his starring role for the final three West End performances of Player Kings, after falling from the stage on 17 June. It is hoped the veteran actor will return to the cast when the play moves to Bristol on 3 July. The role of Sir John Falstaff will be played instead by David Semark, who plays Sir Richard Vernon, but is also Sir Ian's understudy, the play's production team said .
Sir Ian, 85, has been unavailable to perform since his fall during a live performance of the play at the Noel Coward Theatre. The actor said he is having "physiotherapy, light exercise and a lot of essential rest at home" after three nights in hospital. The Player Kings X account posted the show would continue with Semark "while Ian McKellen recuperates following his fall", adding: "We look forward to Ian returning to the production.
" Semark's theatre credits include The Mousetrap and Richard III for the RSC, while his TV appearances include Hustle and Law and Order UK. Adapted by award-winning writer and director Robert Icke, Player Kings brings together two of Shakespeare's great history plays, Henry IV Parts 1 & 2, in a new interpretation. The play began preview showings at the Noel Coward Theatre in London on 1 April and closes on 22 June, before travelling to Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.
The actor had been performing in a fight scene when he lost his footing. It was reported that he cried out in pain, calling for help, and a staff member ru.