Sir Ian McKellen, 85, has withdrawn from a national tour following a fall from the stage during a performance of “Player Kings” at the Noel Coward Theatre in the West End.
The incident, which occurred earlier this month, resulted in McKellen falling into the audience. Initially set to tour until July 27, McKellen announced his withdrawal with reluctance to focus on his recovery.
Shortly after the fall, McKellen confirmed he would miss the remaining London dates to rest. A statement from the production team highlighted that doctors advised McKellen to take time off to fully recover. Consequently, McKellen will not be returning to play Sir John Falstaff on the national tour of “Player Kings.”
His understudy, David Semark, will take over the role for all tour dates.McKellen, who was playing one of Shakespeare’s most famous characters in a modern reworking of “Henry IV, Parts One and Two,” expressed regret over his withdrawal but emphasized the importance of his recovery.
He praised the production and encouraged theatergoers to see the show with Semark in the lead role.The accident occurred during a fight scene in the play, causing McKellen to cry out in pain.
He spent three days in the hospital, undergoing physiotherapy and light exercise at home. McKellen thanked well-wishers and NHS experts for their support and care.
The national tour of “Player Kings” will begin at the Bristol Hippodrome on July 3, followed by performances in Birmingham, Norwich, and Newcastle.
