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. 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 Thursday.
The play is an adaptation of William Shakespeare's two "Henry IV" history plays, directed by Robert Icke. Several performances were canceled after the incident.
"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.
Jean Smart, Ariana Grande, Michael Keaton among hosts for “SNL” season 50
Fresh off her Emmys win, Jean Smart will kick off the landmark 50th season of "Saturday Night Live."
NBC on Thursday announced the lineup of hosts for the season, which premieres Sept. 28. Joining Smart on the first show will be Jelly Roll as the musical act. He was also at the Emmys, singing during the ceremony's in memoriam segment.
It will be Smart's first time hosting "SNL."
Comedian Nate Bargatze will host on Oct. 5, with Coldplay as the musical guest.
Ariana Grande will host Oct. 12, with musical guest Stevie Nicks.
"Beetlejuice" star Michael Keaton will host on Oct. 19, the last show before Halloween, and Billie Eilish will be that night's musical guest.
The host on Nov. 2 will be "SNL" alum John Mulaney, with breakout sensation Chappell Roan as the music guest.
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