Actor Ian McKellen is resting, taking light exercise and undergoing physiotherapy after spending three nights in the hospital after he toppled off a London stage during a fight scene earlier this week. The 85-year-old veteran actor thanked the public for their many messages of support following his fall at the Noel Coward Theatre on Monday. Ian McKellen Shares Health Update After He Falls off Stage During London Show; Expresses Gratitude to NHS Medical Staff and Says 'I Am Hugely Indebted'.

An understudy, David Semark, will take his place in Player Kings during the production's final London dates, a statement sent on McKellen's behalf by his publicist Clair Dobbs said on Thursday. The play is an adaptation of William Shakespeare's two Henry IV history plays, directed by Robert Icke. Several performances were cancelled after the incident. Sir Ian McKellen Hospitalised After He Falls off Stage During London Performance; Actor in ‘Good Spirits’ and Expected To Recover Soon.

Sir Ian McKellen Shares Health Update After He Fell From Stage

"The many messages of love and support will, I am sure, aid the speedy recovery that my doctors have promised me," the statement said. McKellen, who played Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings, is one of Britain's most acclaimed Shakespearean actors, with roles including Richard III, Macbeth and King Lear.