Sir Ian McKellen has expressesld gratitude towards NHS staff and anticipates returning to work following a fall during a West End performance.
The 85-year-old actor, known for his roles in The Lord of the Rings, is currently portraying John Falstaff in Player Kings at London’s Noel Coward Theatre.
After suffering a fall during Monday night’s show, he was taken to hospital for medical treatment, leading to the cancellation of Tuesday and Wednesday night’s performances.
In a statement posted on X, Sir Ian acknowledges the support and messages of concern he received, crediting NHS experts, specialists, and nurses for diagnosing and treating his injuries.
He expresses confidence in his complete and speedy recovery and looks forward to resuming work soon. The play is set to resume on Thursday, with the theatre company expressing delight in Sir Ian’s recovery and anticipation for his return to the production.
Ticketholders affected by the cancellations will be contacted directly. The website for Player Kings lists David Semark as the cover actor for Sir Ian’s role.
During Monday’s incident, witnesses reported Sir Ian crying out in pain during a fight scene, leading to an evacuation of the theatre.
The Noel Coward Theatre provided an update on Sir Ian’s condition, assuring the public of his speedy and full recovery. Player Kings is an adaptation of William Shakespeare’s Henry IV parts one and two, directed by Robert Icke.
