Sir Ian McKellen issues health update after sustaining neck and wrist injuries falling from stage

Sir Ian McKellen has given an update on his health after he sustained neck and wrist injuries while falling from stage. The veteran actor, 85, tumbled off stage while performing in London in June.

He fell into the audience during a performance of Player Kings at the Noël Coward theatre. The Burnley-born actor has since taken to X to issue a health update.

He confirmed he will not appear on the UK tour of his latest theatre production. He announced his withdrawal with the "greatest reluctance" to "protect my recovery".

Sir Ian sustained neck and wrist injuries in the fall, which left him shouting for help. In a statement on X, he said: "Just two weeks after my accident onstage I want to assure my many well-wishers that the injuries (to wrist and neck) are on the mend.

"My doctors promise a complete recovery -but only if I avoid work over the next few weeks. Meanwhile the show goes on and the Player Kings company start their four weeks’ tour without me. My understudy David Semark, who with panache took over for the final performances at the Noël Coward Theatre in the West End of London, will play Falstaff again in Bristol, Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.

"Any actor will say that missing a performance feels somewhat shameful, even when he is not to blame. None of us ever wants to let down our audience."

A statement from the production said: "Following Ian McKellen's injury during the West End run of Player Kings, his doctors' advice is to take time off from work in order to fully recover.

"As such, he will not be returning to play Sir John Falstaff in the national tour of Players Kings (3-27 July 2024).

"Ian continues to recuperate very well, but he needs the time to rest and ensure a complete recovery. We continue to send him our best wishes.

"As it was for the final West End performances, the role of Falstaff will now be performed by David Semark, Ian's brilliant understudy, for all tour dates of Player Kings."