Sir Ian McKellen will not appear when the Player Kings run resumes in the West End on Thursday night following his fall from the stage.
The veteran actor, 85, was performing at London’s Noel Coward Theater when he lost his balance during a fight scene on Monday.
He was taken to hospital after the accident, and performances on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday were canceled to give him time to rest.
The final performances in London will be on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Although he said on Tuesday that he is “looking forward to getting back to work“, he confirmed that his replacement David Semark will continue in his place.
“After three nights in hospital, the effects of my fall on stage have been fully analyzed and I am now undergoing physiotherapy, light exercise and lots of essential rest at home,” he said.
“Meanwhile, my role on Player Kings is filled by the fearsome David Semark, supported by the incredible production and casting of Robert Icke.
“The many messages of love and support will, I am sure, help in the speedy recovery that my doctors have promised me.”
Sir Ian McKellen in February. File photo: PA
The show’s X account also confirmed that Semark will play the role of Sir John Falstaff in the final three performances.
Organizers added that they hope Sir Ian will return to the production, which begins a national tour in Bristol on Wednesday, July 3, before stops in Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.
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Sir Ian was said to be in a scene involving the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy when he fell from the front of the stage.
He was heard crying in pain as staff rushed to help, and the theater later thanked doctors Rachel and Lee, who were in the audience at the time.
An NHS response unit outside the theater. Photo: Sky News
The audience was informed that the remainder of the evening performance had been canceled and evacuated.
Paul Critchley, from Downham Market in Norfolk, was there and said it was a “shock” to witness the crash.
“The house lights came on very quickly as stage management and front of house staff dealt with the incident,” he said.
“We were evacuated immediately so that Sir Ian could be treated in privacy.”
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Following his fall, Lord of the Rings star and Olivier Award winner Sir Ian thanked everyone on Tuesday who left messages of support.
“Since the accident during a Player Kings performance last night, my injuries have been diagnosed and treated by a number of experts, specialists and nurses working for the National Health Service,” he added.
“To them, of course, I am immensely grateful.
“They have assured me that my recovery will be complete and speedy and I look forward to returning to work.”
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