Ian McKellen, 85, in good spirits after nasty fall off stage during West End performance lands him in hospital

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Actor Ian McKellen was hospitalized on June 17 after falling off the stage during a West End performance in London, People reports. McKellen, the beloved English actor renowned for his roles as Gandalf in the 'Lord of the Rings' film trilogy and 'Magneto' in the 'X-Men' films, fell while performing in 'Player Kings,' a production of Henry IV at the Noel Coward Theatre in London.

According to ABC News, a spokesperson for the Noel Coward Theatre said that McKellen was in "good spirits" after doctors indicated that a scan showed he is expected to make a full recovery from the fall.

Ian McKellen cries out in pain after his London stage fall

As per reports from the theater, the stage and screen veteran McKellen, known for his role in many stage roles over his six-decade career, cried out in pain after his fall. McKellen was playing John Falstaff in 'Player Kings,' a production of Henry IV, parts one and two, adapted and directed by Robert Icke, at the Noel Coward Theatre. 

He lost his footing and fell off the stage during a scene with the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy, startling theatergoers. Audience member Paul Critchley recounted, "Sir Ian seemed to trip as he moved downstage to take a more active part in the scene. He picked up momentum as he moved downstage, resulting in him falling off the stage directly in front of the audience.” 

Staff and two doctors in the audience assisted the ailing actor, according to a spokesperson. Another audience member Sandro Trapani expressed concern, saying, "I really hope that he is going to be all right."

Trapani added, "As far as I saw, he was conscious because he was asking for assistance." The theater was evacuated, and the play was canceled. The production was also canceled to give McKellen time to rest. 

McKellen’s career includes playing 'Magneto' in the 'X-Men' films and several Shakespearean characters, including Richard II, Macbeth, and King Lear. He has won a Tony Award for 'Amadeus,' several Laurence Olivier Awards, and has been nominated for two Oscars and several BAFTA awards.

Internet wishes Ian McKellen ‘speedy recovery’ amid medical situation

After hearing about actor Ian McKellen's medical situation, numerous netizens have shared their comments on Facebook. 

One user wrote, "We need him alive to place Gandalf in 2026 or there’s no point in making any more lord of the rings movies!!" Another user emphasized the speedy recovery, "Speedy recovery, Ian" 

The third user added, "I wish you a quick recovery and more life to live on earth"

The fourth pleased the actor saying, "NOT SIR IAN. I hope he's okay! Don't make unnecessary journeys! Don't take risks on treacherous roads! And don't swim in the sea!" The last claimed, "Wishing him well"

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