Ian McKellen speaks out after hospitalisation: “Looking forward to returning to work”

The actor thanked those who sent him messages of support.

By Katelyn Mensah

Published: Wednesday, 19 June 2024 at 14:50 PM

Sir Ian McKellen has thanked well wishers for their “kind messages and support” after he was hospitalised after suffering from a fall during a performance of Player Kings at the Noël Coward theatre in London.

McKellen stars as Falstaff in the Shakespearian adaptation, but on Monday 17th June, the actor fell off the front of the stage during a battle scene.

The 85-year-old was said to have cried out in pain before the lights came up and he was taken to hospital.

A spokesperson for the Noël Coward theatre in London said at the time that McKellen was “in good spirits” and expected to make “a speedy and full recovery”.

Sir Ian McKellen wearing a patterned green and white suit, posing for a picture on the red carpet of Player Kings.
Sir Ian McKellen.
Hoda Davaine/Dave Benett/Getty Images

In a statement posted to X (formerly known as Twitter), McKellen wrote: “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.”