Ian McKellen Says ‘Fat Suit Saved My Ribs’ During ‘Horrible’ Stage Fall: The Pain Is Still ‘Agonizing’ and ‘I Have to Keep Telling Myself I’m Not Too Old to Act’

As a film enthusiast with a deep appreciation for the art of acting and the resilience of its practitioners, I can’t help but be deeply moved by Sir Ian McKellen‘s recent ordeal. His bravery and fortitude in the face of adversity are truly inspiring.


Ian McKellen shared with Saga Magazine (through The Standard) that he endured intense pain following his fall in June, during a show of “Player Kings” at the Noel Coward Theatre in London. As John Falstaff, he slipped over a newspaper and tumbled into the front row, fracturing his wrist and cracking a vertebra in the process. Regrettably, these injuries have yet to fully heal.

“McKellen stated that he prefers staying indoors as he’s anxious about potential collisions and has been enduring severe shoulder pain from a previous shock. However, the bulky costume he wore for Falstaff actually protected his ribs and other joints, making him grateful for the experience.”

“He went on to say that he’s replayed that fall numerous times, and it was truly awful. He believed it marked the conclusion of something significant, which left him feeling distraught. The term ‘conclusion’ didn’t imply his demise, but it felt like the end of his involvement in the production.”

Indeed, the injury brought about his final performance as Falstaff in “The Player Kings.” Although McKellen initially showed a desire to rejoin the production shortly after his fall, he ultimately had to withdraw due to his injuries. In a statement, he expressed gratitude towards the medical professionals who cared for him at that time, acknowledging his deep sense of obligation to them.

“Sir Ian McKellen recently shared with Saga Magazine that he continually reminds himself he’s not too old to perform. He clarified it was simply an unfortunate incident, as he didn’t faint or feel dizzy, but unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to resume his stage appearances, and the shows have gone on without him.”

Following Sir Ian McKellen’s hospitalization, an official from the theater announced that he was expected to swiftly and completely recuperate. The stage adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “Henry IV, Parts One and Two,” titled “Player Kings,” commenced its 12-week performance on the West End in April.

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2024-08-20 23:16