Ian McKellen expected to make a full recovery after falling off stage in London play

Actor Ian McKellen is in "good spirits" and set to make a "speedy and full" recovery after falling off the stage during a showing of the Player Kings play in London, a spokesperson for the Noël Coward Theatre in London has said.

McKellen reportedly lost his footing during the performance of a fight scene at the theatre in The West End, which resulted in him plummeting off of the stage.

According to the BBC, as the house lights came up, the actor cried out in pain and staff rushed to help, McKellen was rushed to the hospital whilst audiences were evacuated from the venue and informed that the rest of the evening's performance was cancelled.

McKellen's publicist has also stated that the actor is set to make a "speedy and full recovery".

The complete statement reads, "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. Following a scan, the brilliant NHS team has assured us that he will make a speedy and full recovery and that Ian is in good spirits."

"The production made the decision to cancel the performance on Tuesday, June 18, so Ian can rest. Those affected will be contacted by their point of purchase as soon as possible tomorrow. Thank you to doctors Rachel and Lee, who were on hand in the audience, and to all the venue staff for their support."

Players Kings' performances are set to return to The West End on Wednesday, June 19. Those who bought tickets for June 18 performances can expect news about refunds soon.

McKellen plays John Falstaff in the production of Shakespeare's Henry IV Parts I and II; the play started its 12-week West End run in April and is set to move through Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle in July.

Step inside opening night of #PlayerKingsThePlay! Don’t miss this ‘terrific take on one of the greatest plays ever written’ (Time Out). Now playing in London’s West End at the Noël Coward Theatre.

🎟️: https://t.co/0oDB4nMjEY pic.twitter.com/iQ60nJFSF2

— Player Kings (@PlayerKingsPlay) April 12, 2024