Ian McKellen Drops Out of ‘Player Kings’ National Tour After Fall

Ian McKellen will not return to his role in the play Players Kings for its tour of the U.K. after suffering an on-stage fall two weeks ago. Initially, it was expected that he would recover from his injuries in time for the trek. However, producers shared the news yesterday that the 85-year-old actor will need more time to heal. David Semark will be taking over McKellen’s role. In a statement, McKellen expressed his disappointment but assured theater-goers that the “production and his acting company remain as dazzling as ever.” He was hospitalized after falling off the stage during a performance on June 17. The rest of that show was canceled, and the crowd was evacuated. (Variety)