Summary
- Ian McKellen rushed to hospital after falling off stage during London performance of
Player Kings
. - Shocked audience evacuated as the evening show was canceled amid concerns about the actor’s well-being.
- Reports say McKellen was conscious when assisted from the theater.
Ian McKellen was rushed to hospital on Monday after falling off the stage during a performance of his current play in London. The actor is appearing as John Falstaff in Player Kings at the Noel Coward Theatre in the West End.
McKellen was taking part in a fight scene when he fell off the front of the stage and was heard to cry out in pain. The theater was evacuated, with those in attendance being advised that the evening show was canceled. Paul Nero, a writer and broadcaster, wrote on X:
“Audience shocked by Sir Ian McKellen’s fall off stage tonight at Noel Coward Theatre. Staff working hard to help him. Thoughts with him, cast and crew.”
Fans Were Shocked and Offered Best Wishes to McKellen
Another person who was present for the performance added, “Shocking to watch, it was a terrible fall. Hoping he is not badly injured, he seemed to be in great pain.” The actor was reported to be conscious when he was assisted from the theater.
Others in attendance at the performance also took to social media to share similar statements of disbelief, while many others hearing of the accident sent their best wishes to the actor and hoped for him a speedy recovery.
McKellen has been performing in Player Kings since April in what was to be a 12-week engagement. The actor’s appearance in the play has received great acclaim, with some, such as the X/Twitter user below calling the play “unmissable” just because of McKellen’s presence.
This is a developing story. Check back later for more information as it becomes available.
