Ian McKellen Expected to Make Full Recovery After Falling Off London Stage

Sir Ian McKellen

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Ian McKellen is expected to make a full recovery after falling off the stage during a performance at the Noël Coward theatre in London on Monday evening.

McKellen, 85, was performing as John Falstaff in a production of Henry IV, Parts One and Two, which began a 12-week run as part of a show titled Player Kings on London’s West End in April when he lost his footing and fell during a fight scene. As the house lights turned on, the audience heard him cry out and staff soon rushed to help. The show was eventually cancelled, and the crowd evacuated from the theater.

“Thank you to our audience and the general public for their well wishes following Ian’s fall during this evening’s performance of Player Kings,” a statement from McKellen’s rep noted. “Following a scan, the brilliant NHS team have assured us that he will make a speedy and full recovery and Ian is in good spirits.”

The production canceled the scheduled Tuesday performance for McKellen to rest, and noted those affected would be contacted as soon as possible.

“Thank you to doctors Rachel and Lee who were on hand in the audience and to all the venue staff for their support,” the statement concluded.