Veteran British actor Ian McKellen, who portrayed Gandalf in the film trilogy “The Lord of the Rings,” was taken to the hospital late on Monday following a stage fall that occurred during a performance in London.
The 85-year-old actor was starring as John Falstaff in a production of “Player Kings” at the Noel Coward Theatre in London’s West End when he lost his footing during a fight scene.
Following McKellen’s fall, the remainder of the night’s performance was canceled.
A theater representative said on Tuesday, “After a scan, the amazing NHS (National Health Service) team have reassured us that he will make a speedy and full recovery and Ian is in good spirits.”
“The production has made the decision to cancel the performance on Tuesday June 18 so Ian can rest.”
He had been expected to return to the stage on Wednesday but the show has now been cancelled until Thursday, an updated statement read, adding that the star was “recovering well”.
McKellen, who also played “Magneto” in the X-Men films, is one of Britain’s most recognised actors, having won many awards during a 60-year career on stage and screen.
“Player Kings” is a return to Shakespeare for McKellen, combining two of the Bard’s history plays about King Henry IV.
