Sir Ian McKellen has said he is “looking forward to returning to work” after falling off a stage in London’s West End and told how he expects to make a “complete” and “speedy” recovery.
The veteran stage and screen actor, 85, toppled off the stage yesterday evening at the Noel Coward Theatre after losing his footing during a fight scene in a production of Player Kings.
In a statement on Tuesday evening, Sir Ian, who plays John Falstaff in the production, said he is “hugely indebted” to the medical staff who have assured him his recovery will be “complete and speedy”.
“I want to thank everyone for their kind messages and support.
“Since the accident, during a performance of Player Kings last night, my injuries have been diagnosed and treated by a series of experts, specialists and nurses working for the National Health Service.
“To them, of course, I am hugely indebted.
“They have assured me that my recovery will be complete and speedy and I am looking forward to returning to work.”
After the accident, the Lord of the Rings star was taken to hospital to receive treatment and the remainder of Monday and Tuesday’s performances were cancelled to allow him to rest.
Sir Ian had been expected to return for Wednesday’s matinee performance, but it was announced on Tuesday that the show will now not return until Thursday.
The play’s London run ends on Saturday, and it will then go on tour to Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.
Sir Ian did not reveal in his statement what his injuries are and when he will return to work.
In a statement posted to X, the show added: “We are delighted that Ian is recovering well, and look forward to him returning to the production as soon as he is ready. We will keep audiences updates regarding remaining performances this week.”
A spokesperson for the London theatre said in a statement on Monday night that Sir Ian was in “good spirits” and thanked doctors Rachel and Lee who were “on hand in the audience” and to the venue staff “for their support”.
A BBC journalist, who saw the play, said the actor was in a scene involving the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy when he fell off the front of the stage.
Sir Ian was heard to cry out in pain as staff rushed to help.
Audience member Paul Critchley said it was a “shock” to witness the fall.
The Methodist minister from Downham Market, Norfolk recalled how Sir Ian seemed to trip as he moved downstage to take a more active part in the scene before falling off the stage directly in front of the audience.
Player Kings, a production of Henry IV, parts one and two, adapted and directed by Robert Icke, is due to end its run at the Noel Coward Theatre on Saturday.
Additional reporting by Press Association.