Sir Ian McKellen, 85, released from hospital after falling from stage
Sir Ian McKellen attends "The Delaunay Presents An Evening With" in collaboration with Denville Hall, the residential home for all members of the theatrical profession, at The Delaunay, Aldwych, on April 21, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Dave Be
Actor Ian McKellen has been released from a hospital after falling off a stage in London earlier this week.
McKellan, 85, was acting in a fight scene in "Player Kings" at the Noel Coward Theatre Monday when he toppled off the stage, according to The Associated Press.
Two doctors were in the audience and helped the actor, along with theater staff, the theater said in a statement. The theater was evacuated and the performance was canceled.
An understudy will take his place for the play’s final dates.
"They have assured me that my recovery will be complete and speedy and I am looking forward to returning to work," McKellan said on X (formerly Twitter).
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McKellan’s publicist says the acclaimed actor is resting, doing light exercise and undergoing physiotherapy. In a statement, McKellan thanked the public for messages of support.
"The many messages of love and support will, I am sure, aid the speedy recovery that my doctors have promised me," McKellan said in the statement.
McKellen, who played Gandalf in the "Lord of the Rings," is one of Britain’s most acclaimed Shakespearean actors, with roles including Richard III, Macbeth and King Lear. He also had roles in "The Good Liar," "Mr. Holmes" and the "X-Men" movies, among many others.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.