Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall

Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall

As a seasoned theatre critic with decades of experience under my belt, I have seen countless performances that have left me speechless, moved me to tears, and even brought a smile to my face. But none have tested my faith in the power of live theatre quite like Sir Ian McKellen’s recent accident onstage during a production of “Player Kings.”


Sir Ian McKellen reflected on his past experiences with a fresh new look, having had to relinquish his role in Player Kings due to an unexpected accident that left him with no other choice but to shave off his beard.

At the age of 85, the experienced actor unfortunately fell during rehearsals for his role as John Falstaff in the play, causing him to exit the production six weeks prior to its completion.

On June 17, Ian was performing at the Noel Coward Theatre in London’s West End. During a fight scene, he slipped and fell off the stage.

In recent images, Ian is seen wearing a brace on his wrist, following injuries he sustained to both his wrist and neck in the accident.

In the photos, his thick grey beard and unruly locks were missing, replaced by a smoothly shaven face as he grinned at the camera.

Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall

Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall

Regarding his latest Instagram post, he commented: “The day of the 101st and last performance of Player Kings, which I wasn’t part of.”

“I marked the occasion by shaving off Falstaff’s beard, which had grown for nine months. I look forward to attending the afternoon performance in Newcastle.”

Sir Ian was admitted to the hospital for three consecutive nights, enduring wounds to his wrist and neck that sadly prevented him from finishing his scheduled performances.

Over the weekend, Sir Ian made an appearance with a resilient expression, surprising the Player Kings cast on Saturday despite being compelled to leave the production earlier.

After enduring a terrible fall six weeks prior, the esteemed actor, with the aid of a neck brace and wrist support, made an appearance at the Theatre Royal in the process of healing from his wounds.

Earlier today, the actor shared on Instagram that he would be attending the play in Newcastle as a member of the audience.

Sir Ian’s new shorter hairlook was showcased behind the scenes at Hair Salon Supply 91 during their photoshoot, as they gave a sneak peek to their followers.

Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
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Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall

Fans took to the comment share to share wish Ian a fast recovery. 

“I’m thrilled that I got to see you there! What a wonderful experience it was. Wishing you a swift and complete recovery. Best wishes, Xx”

Your actions were nothing short of amazing! I’m thrilled I had the opportunity to witness and connect with you. I’m sure the freedom from keeping Falstaff’s wig on is a welcome relief for you.

1. I wish I had been there in Birmingham to see you.

Despite his injuries, Sir Ian appeared in a cheery mood. 

The actor showed off his style in a navy hat, long black coat, sunglasses and a patterned scarf.

Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall
Sir Ian McKellan receives a tidy up as has his beard shaved and hair cut while sporting a wrist support after finishing role as Falstaff in Player Kings six weeks after his stage fall

Recently, Sir Ian used X, which was previously known as Twitter, to inform his large following about his health status.

I had an unfortunate incident two weeks ago during a stage performance, resulting in injuries to my wrist and neck. I want to express my gratitude to all of you who have shown concern and support. My doctors are confident that with proper rest and care, I will make a full recovery. However, they strongly advise me to take a break from work for the time being to ensure a smooth healing process.

In the meantime, the Player Kings company begins their four-week tour without me as the show carries on. (Alternatively, The Player Kings company commences their four-week tour while I’m absent.)

An actor would tell you that it’s an embarrassment for them to miss a show, regardless of the cause. We all strive to avoid disappointing our viewers.

Sir Ian shared that he would be undergoing home-based treatments including physiotherapy, gentle workouts, and plenty of necessary rest following his three-night hospital stay.

In the play, the actor accidentally slipped off the stage during a scene featuring the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy. He let out a cry of discomfort as the crew swiftly attended to him.

Sir Ian mentioned that following a three-night hospital stay due to a fall onstage, the medical team has completed their assessment. Now, he is undergoing physiotherapy sessions, engaging in gentle workouts, and taking adequate rest at home for optimal recovery.

In the meantime, I am ably replaced in “Player Kings” by the formidable David Semark, with Robert Icke’s exceptional direction and talented ensemble.

I’m confident that the numerous heartfelt messages of love and encouragement will help expedite the healing process that my doctors have assured me of.

The run of “Player Kings,” a combined adaptation and direction project by Robert Icke of Henry IV’s first and second parts, concluded at the Noel Coward Theatre.

The play moved to the Bristol Hippodrome before being staged in Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle.

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2024-07-29 21:34

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