Sir Ian McKellen makes health announcement after sustaining neck and wrist injuries in stage fall

Sir Ian McKellen has provided an update on his health following a fall from stage that resulted in neck and wrist injuries. The legendary 85-year-old actor took a tumble into the audience in June while performing in Player Kings at London's Noel Coward theatre.

The Burnley-born star has since taken to social media to share news about his condition. He confirmed he will not be participating in the UK tour of his latest theatre production, announcing his withdrawal with "the greatest reluctance" in order to "protect my recovery".

In the unfortunate incident, Sir Ian suffered injuries to his neck and wrist, which led him to cry out for assistance from the audience. In a statement on social media, he reassured his fans: "Just two weeks after my accident onstage I want to assure my many well-wishers that the injuries (to wrist and neck) are on the mend.

"My doctors promise a complete recovery -but only if I avoid work over the next few weeks. Meanwhile the show goes on and the Player Kings company start their four weeks' tour without me. My understudy David Semark, who with panache took over for the final performances at the Noel Coward Theatre in the West End of London, will play Falstaff again in Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.

"Any actor will say that missing a performance feels somewhat shameful, even when he is not to blame. None of us ever wants to let down our audience."

A statement from the production read: "Following Ian McKellen's injury during the West End run of Player Kings, his doctors' advice is to take time off from work in order to fully recover. As such, he will not be returning to play Sir John Falstaff in the national tour of Players Kings (3-27 July 2024)."

"Ian continues to recuperate very well, but he needs the time to rest and ensure a complete recovery. We continue to send him our best wishes."

"As it was for the final West End performances, the role of Falstaff will now be performed by David Semark, Ian's brilliant understudy, for all tour dates of Player Kings."