Virgin Radio
20 Jun 2024, 14:26
Credit: Rex/Getty
Legendary Lord of the Rings star lost his footing and fell from the stage during a West End production, understudy steps in for remaining performances
The iconic Sir Ian McKellen, our beloved Gandalf from The Lord of the Rings, has taken a fall during a performance of Player Kings at the Noël Coward Theatre in London.
Sadly, the mishap means Sir Ian will miss the remaining West End shows, with his valiant understudy, David Semark, stepping in to save the day.
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The drama unfolded on June 18 during a fight scene, where Sir Ian lost his footing and tumbled off the stage.
He was swiftly whisked away to hospital, leaving fans in a state of shock. After spending three nights under the care of the NHS (who deserve their own standing ovation), Sir Ian is now home, resting and undergoing physiotherapy.
In true professional fashion, McKellen addressed his adoring public with grace and gratitude: “After three nights in hospital, the effects of my fall onstage have been fully analysed and I’m now having physiotherapy, light exercise and a lot of essential rest at home.
"Meanwhile, my part in Player Kings is filled by the redoubtable David Semark, supported by Robert Icke’s amazing production and cast. The many messages of love and support will, I am sure, aid the speedy recovery that my doctors have promised me.”
A statement from the production team confirmed that Semark would don the cloak of Sir John Falstaff for the final shows.
They also assured fans that Sir Ian is eager to return when the production goes on a national tour, starting in Bristol on July 3 before heading to Birmingham, Norwich, and Newcastle.
Sir Ian also took the opportunity on X (formerly known as Twitter) to thank his supporters and the NHS heroes who treated him: “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.”
Eyewitnesses reported hearing cries of pain as the house lights came up and theatre staff rushed to assist Sir Ian.
The audience was evacuated, and the evening show was cancelled, leaving fans hoping for a swift recovery for their favourite wizard-turned-thespian.
The production's team sent out a heartfelt message shortly after the incident: “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.
"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 has made the decision to cancel the performance on Tuesday 18 June so Ian can rest.
"Those affected will be contacted by their point of purchase as soon as possible tomorrow. Thank you to doctors Rachel and Lee who were on hand in the audience and to all the venue staff for their support.”
Sir Ian’s enthusiasm for the role of Falstaff was palpable earlier this year when he spoke to the BBC: “Actors who have taken on the role say it is verbally very challenging – it seems that the role was written for a particular actor and comedian in Shakespeare’s time, so it’s a bit like being given a script for Michael McIntyre.”
Bruised but not battered by the incident, Mckellen was still keenly excited about the touring aspect of the show, saying: “The play itself has so many settings across England, from the taverns of the East End to the rural peaceful countryside of Gloucestershire and so it only makes sense that we take this show all around, giving the opportunity to as many people as possible to see it.”
While Sir Ian recovers, fans can take solace in knowing that the show will go on, thanks to the capable David Semark.
Here’s wishing Sir Ian a speedy recovery, the stage just isn’t the same without him!
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