Sir Ian McKellen won't be returning to the West End run of Player Kings, after all. While the 85-year-old actor recovers at home, his understudy, David Semark, will play the role of Sir John Falstaff.
Last June 17, McKellen fell from the stage of the Noël Coward Theater while performing in a battle scene with Toheeb Jimoh and Nigel Lister. He was immediately brought to hospital, and it was announced that he would return for the June 19 performance. This was not to be, however. "After three nights in hospital, the effects of my fall onstage have been fully analysed and I'm now having physiotherapy, light exercise and a lot of essential rest at home," said McKellen. "Meanwhile my part in Player Kings is filled by the redoubtable David Semark supported by Robert Icke's amazing production and cast."
Semark said in an interview: "I have worked alongside him for months, so we get on, he's a friend. Obviously my first thought is for my friend, and the wonderful human being that is Sir Ian McKellen. He called me to tell me what was going on, which was amazing, and has been incredibly supportive throughout the rehearsals.
"I definitely couldn't have had the courage to go on there tonight if I didn't feel that he was behind me with me.
"But I am holding a place open for Sir Ian. I walk in the shadow of greatness...."
Semark, who trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and has performed in the television shows, EastEnders, Doctors, Law & Order: UK and The Bill, also said that suddenly having to step in for McKellen has made for "an incredibly stressful couple of days."
The Player Kings X account announced Semark's assumption of the role on June 20. In the same post, it said: "We look forward to Ian returning to the production, which begins a national tour in Bristol on Wednesday 3 July, before visiting Birmingham, Norwich and Newcastle."
