Ian McKellen, the esteemed actor known for his roles in “The Lord of the Rings” and “X-Men,” recently shared details about an onstage injury that has temporarily sidelined him from performing. The 85-year-old actor fell off the stage during a performance of “Player Kings” at London’s Noël Coward Theatre on June 17, resulting in injuries to his wrist and neck.
In a heartfelt post on X, formerly known as Twitter, McKellen assured his fans that he is on the mend. “Just two weeks after my accident onstage, I want to assure my many well-wishers that the injuries (to wrist and neck) are on the mend. My doctors promise a complete recovery – but only if I avoid work over the next few weeks,” he wrote.
McKellen’s role as Sir John Falstaff in “Player Kings” will be taken over by his understudy, David Semark, for the duration of the tour. Semark had already stepped in for the final performances at the Noël Coward Theatre and will continue to play Falstaff in upcoming shows in Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich, and Newcastle.
“Meanwhile, the show goes on, and the Player Kings company start their four weeks’ tour without me. My understudy David Semark, who with panache took over for the final performances at the Noël Coward Theatre in the West End of London, will play Falstaff again in Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich, and Newcastle,” McKellen added.
Despite his absence, McKellen encouraged fans to see the show, praising the production and his fellow actors. “Any actor will say that missing a performance feels somewhat shameful, even when he is not to blame. None of us ever wants to let down our audience,” he wrote. “But Robert Icke’s masterful production remains intact. His mise en scène is compelling throughout, and his actors, led by Toheeb Jimoh and Richard Coyle as Prince Hal and his father, remain on top form. Go see for yourself!”
The announcement of McKellen’s continued absence from the tour was also shared by the theater production’s account on X. “Following Ian McKellen’s injury during the West End run of Player Kings, his doctors’ advice is to take time off from work in order to fully recover,” the statement read. It also noted that McKellen “continues to recuperate very well” and needs time to rest to ensure a complete recovery.
McKellen’s fall occurred during a fight scene in “Player Kings,” a reworked version of Shakespeare’s “Henry IV” parts I and II, adapted and directed by Robert Icke. The production had been nearing the end of its three-month run at the Noël Coward Theatre before going on tour in the UK. The actor was taken to the hospital immediately after the fall, where he spent three nights undergoing treatment and physiotherapy.
In a statement following his accident, McKellen expressed optimism about his recovery. “After three nights in hospital, the effects of my fall onstage have been fully analyzed, and I’m now having physiotherapy, light exercise, and a lot of essential rest at home,” he said. He also thanked his medical team and the National Health Service for their care.
McKellen’s understudy, David Semark, has a strong background in theater, with credits including “The Mousetrap” and “Richard III” for the Royal Shakespeare Company. His television appearances include roles in “Hustle” and “Law and Order UK.” Semark’s performance in “Player Kings” has been well-received, and he is expected to continue delivering a compelling portrayal of Sir John Falstaff.
The production of “Player Kings” began its 12-week West End run in April and was set to close on June 22 before traveling to other cities. McKellen had been performing in a fight scene when he lost his footing and fell off the stage. A staff member rushed to assist him, and the play was subsequently canceled for the evening.
Despite the setback, McKellen remains in good spirits and is looking forward to returning to work once he has fully recovered. “The many messages of love and support will, I am sure, aid the speedy recovery that my doctors have promised me,” he said.
Fans and fellow actors have shown an outpouring of support for McKellen during his recovery. Sir Anthony Hopkins, a close friend of McKellen, shared a video on Instagram celebrating McKellen’s “unbreakable spirit.” The two actors were seen joking around and dancing, bringing smiles to their fans.
As McKellen continues his recovery, the theater community and his fans eagerly await his return to the stage. His dedication to his craft and his resilience in the face of adversity serve as an inspiration to many.
Source: CNN, PEOPLE, BBC
