Ian McKellan took to social media on Tuesday to share details about his injuries after falling off a stage in London.
The 85-year-old esteemed actor, known for his roles in classic plays and popular films such as “The Lord of the Rings,” was injured in a performance accident that forced him to temporarily retire from the stage. McKellan fell from the stage during a performance at the Noel Coward Theatre in London on June 17, injuring his wrist and neck.
Just two weeks after my onstage accident, I want to assure my many supporters that my injuries (wrist and neck) are on the way to recovery. The doctors have assured me that I will make a full recovery, but only if I avoid work for the next few weeks.
Meanwhile, the show goes on and Player Kings…
— Ian McKellen (@IanMcKellen) July 2, 2024
With the update share On Twitter, McKellan He followed doctor's orders and reassured fans that he was on the road to a full recovery.
“It's only been two weeks since my onstage accident and I want to assure all my many well-wishers that I am on the mend from my (wrist and neck) injuries. The doctors have assured me that I will make a full recovery, but only if I avoid work for the next few weeks,” the actor wrote. (RELATED: Jake Gyllenhaal Reveals Scary Injury He Suffered While Filming Remake of Cult Classic Action Movie)
“Meanwhile, the show goes on with the Player Kings company embarking on a four-week tour without me. My understudy David Semark, who took over brilliantly for the final show at the Noel Coward Theatre in London's West End, will reprise the role of Falstaff in Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.”
LONDON, UK – SEPTEMBER 5, 2023: Sir Ian McKellan poses in the press room at the National Television Awards 2023 at The O2 Arena in London, UK on September 5, 2023. (Photo by Joe Maher/WireImage)
McKellan delivered a heartfelt message about how difficult it is to be away from the show, praising producing director Robert Icke and the cast, and urging fans to continue supporting the show in his absence.
“Any actor would feel a little embarrassed to miss a performance, even if through no fault of their own. No one wants to disappoint an audience,” he continued. “But Robert Icke's brilliant direction remains intact. His mise-en-scène is captivating from start to finish and his actors, led by Toheeb Zimho and Richard Coyle as Prince Hal and his father, are on top form. See for yourself!”
