Sir Ian McKellen in 'good spirits' and expected to 'make full recovery' after stage fall

Sir Ian McKellen, the esteemed actor known for his role in The Lord Of The Rings, is said to be in "good spirits" and on track for a "make a speedy and full recovery" after an unfortunate fall from the stage during a West End performance. The incident occurred during a fight scene in the production of Player Kings at the Noel Coward Theatre, where the 85 year old actor is currently portraying John Falstaff.

A spokesperson for the London theatre expressed gratitude for the public's concern, stating: "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," They further confirmed that, after a scan, the NHS team has assured them of Sir Ian's swift recovery.

In light of the incident, the Tuesday June 18 performance was cancelled to allow Sir Ian some rest. Ticket holders affected by this decision will be contacted as soon as possible.

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The theatre's statement also extended thanks to doctors Rachel and Lee who were present in the audience, as well as the venue staff for their support. Sir Ian is expected to return to the stage for Wednesday's matinee performance.

Following the incident, theatre-goers were informed that the rest of the evening's performance had been cancelled and they were promptly evacuated from the building. A BBC journalist who was in attendance reported that the seasoned actor was in a scene with the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy when he tumbled off the front of the stage, reports Wales Online.

The actor could be heard crying out in pain as staff hurried to his aid. Audience member Paul Critchley described the fall as a "shock" to witness.

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Mr Critchley, a Methodist minister hailing from Downham Market, Norfolk, recounted: "Sir Ian seemed to trip as he moved downstage to take a more active part in the scene. "He picked up momentum as he moved downstage which resulted in him falling off the stage directly in front of the audience.

"The house lights were swiftly turned on as the stage management and front of house team dealt with the incident. We were evacuated immediately so that Sir Ian could be treated in privacy. "An announcement was made by theatre management that the show had been cancelled, that Sir Ian was receiving treatment and an ambulance had been called.

"It was a shock to witness his fall and I wish him a speedy recovery. My thoughts are also with his fellow cast members, stage crew and front of house team at the Noel Coward Theatre."

The London Ambulance Service has chosen not to comment on the incident.

Player Kings, a rendition of Henry IV, parts one and two, adapted and directed by Robert Icke, is set to transfer to the Bristol Hippodrome in July. The production will also grace stages in Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.

Sir Ian, whose illustrious career spans over six decades, has performed in theatres nationwide.

He is perhaps best known for his on-screen roles as Magneto in the X-Men series and Gandalf in Peter Jackson's adaptation of JRR Tolkien's fantasy trilogy. His stage performances have seen him embody numerous Shakespearean characters such as Richard II, Macbeth, Coriolanus, and King Lear.

His extensive acting portfolio has earned him several accolades, including multiple Olivier Awards.

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