Ian McKellen, 85, will temporarily step down from his role as Sir John Falstaff in ‘Player Kings’ at London’s Noël Coward Theatre after falling offstage during a performance of Shakespeare’s ‘Henry IV.’ McKellen is expected to fully recover and will resume his role for the national tour in July.
Actor Ian McKellen, 85, will take a break from his role as Sir John Falstaff in “Player Kings” after a fall during a performance at London’s Noël Coward Theatre. The incident occurred on Monday during a fight scene in the adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Henry IV, Part 1” and “Henry IV, Part 2.” McKellen fell off the stage, leading to the cancellation of that night and the following day’s shows.
Theater officials confirmed that McKellen, who was taken to the hospital, is expected to make a full recovery. David Semark, the understudy, will take over the role for the remaining performances in London. McKellen will return for the national tour beginning July 3. Fans have expressed disappointment but sent well wishes for his recovery.
