Sir Ian McKellen health update: Latest after Lord of The Rings star fell off West End stage

The veteran stage and screen actor, 85, was portraying John Falstaff in a production of Player Kings at the Noel Coward Theatre on Monday when he lost his footing in a fight scene and fell from the stage.

In a statement posted to X, he said he is “hugely indebted” to the medical staff who have assured him his recovery will be “complete and speedy”. He said: “I want to thank everyone for their kind messages and support.

“Since the accident, during a performance of Player Kings last night, my injuries have been diagnosed and treated by a series of experts, specialists and nurses working for the National Health Service. To them, of course, I am hugely indebted. They have assured me that my recovery will be complete and speedy and I am looking forward to returning to work.”

Sir Ian was taken to hospital to receive treatment, and the remainder of Monday and Tuesday’s performances were cancelled to allow him to rest. He had been expected to return for Wednesday’s matinee performance, but it was announced on Tuesday that the show will now not return until Thursday.

In a statement posted to X, the show said: “We are delighted that Ian is recovering well, and look forward to him returning to the production as soon as he is ready. We will keep audiences updates regarding remaining performances this week.”

A spokesperson for the London theatre said in a statement on Monday night that Sir Ian was in “good spirits” and thanked doctors Rachel and Lee who were “on hand in the audience” and to the venue staff “for their support”.

The actor reportedly fell off the front of the stage during a play involving the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy. The incident occurred during a production of Henry IV, part one and two, adapted and directed by Robert Icke.

The play will end its run at the Noel Coward Theatre on Saturday and move to the Bristol Hippodrome in July before being staged in Birmingham, Norwich, and Newcastle.

Sir Ian's career has spanned over six decades, with notable roles in the X-Men films and the fantasy trilogy based on JRR Tolkien's books. He has also played Shakespearean characters on stage, including Richard II, Macbeth, Coriolanus, and King Lear.

His numerous acting credits have earned him a number of accolades over the years including several Olivier Awards.