Veteran actor Sir Ian McKellen, 85, was hospitalized after falling off the stage during a performance at the Noel Coward Theatre in London. Known for iconic roles in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘X-Men’ series, McKellen was performing in ‘Player Kings’ when the incident occurred.
Sir Ian McKellen Hospitalized After Falling Off Stage
Veteran actor Sir Ian McKellen, 85, was taken to the hospital after falling off the stage during a West End performance. McKellen, known for his roles as Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” and Magneto in the “X-Men” series, was performing as John Falstaff in “Player Kings” at the Noel Coward Theatre in London when the incident occurred.
The actor lost his footing during a fight scene and fell off the front of the stage. The audience was informed that the performance had been canceled, and they were evacuated. McKellen was immediately attended to by theatre staff, and an ambulance was called.
“Player Kings,” directed by Robert Icke, features adaptations of “Henry IV, Parts One and Two,” and is scheduled to move to the Bristol Hippodrome in July with further performances planned in Birmingham, Norwich, and Newcastle.
Sir Ian McKellen’s illustrious career spans over six decades, with numerous accolades including several Olivier Awards. His representatives and the theatre have been approached for further comment.
The London Ambulance Service has declined to comment on the incident.
Additional Noteworthy Details:
– Sir Ian McKellen started his acting career with a scholarship to St Catharine’s College, Cambridge.
– He is an active advocate for gay rights, having publicly come out in 1988 during a discussion on Margaret Thatcher’s Section 28 legislation.