Famous British actor Ian McKellen, who celebrated his 85th birthday a month ago, experienced a serious incident during a performance at the Noël Coward Theater in London. On Monday evening, while playing the role of John Falstaff in the play “Henry IV”, McKellen lost his balance and fell off the stage. The fall occurred during a dynamic fight scene, which stopped the performance and worried the audience.
Quick reaction
After the fall, the lights in the audience immediately turned on and the audience heard the actor’s scream. Help quickly arrived, the show was interrupted and the audience was evacuated. McKellen was taken for examination, which showed that the actor was not seriously injured and was in good condition.
A witness present at the performance told MailOnline that McKellen remained conscious after the fall. Nevertheless, the situation was extremely dramatic. “He immediately let out a terrifying scream that froze the blood in his veins. He shouted ‘help me, help me’, then ‘my hands, my hands’ and again ‘help me, help me'” – the viewer described the event.
A spokesman for McKellen issued a statement: “We would like to thank our audience and everyone who sent their well wishes following Ian’s fall during tonight’s performance of ‘Player Kings’. Following tests, the NHS team has assured us that Ian will make a speedy recovery and is in good spirits.”
Canceled performances and audience support
Tuesday’s performance was canceled so McKellen could rest and fully recover. The production organizers assured that all people who purchased tickets for that day will soon be informed about further steps.
In a statement from McKellen’s spokesman gratitude to the doctors in the audience was also emphasized: “Thank you to Drs. Rachel and Lee, who were there, and all the theater staff for their support.”
Continuation of the season
The play “Henry IV”, part of the larger project “Player Kings”, began its 12-week West End season in April. The incident certainly worried fans, but assurances about McKellen’s good health and his quick return to the stage will certainly reassure viewers.
Ian McKellen is one of the most respected theater and film actors, known for roles such as Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” and Magneto in the “X-Men” series. His return to the stage will certainly be eagerly awaited by theater lovers around the world.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
