Sir Ian McKellen shares health update after fall
Sir Ian McKellen has admitted his health is deteriorating, after he fell off stage during a performance in a London theatre a few months ago.
The Lord of the Rings actor was starring in a production of Player Kings at the Noel Coward Theatre when he fell off stage and snapped his wrist. He also chipped a vertebrae, but has now revealed that he has other issues too.
“I forget names … When you’re older you’ve got more to remember than people who are young," he said.
“Nevertheless, it’s a nuisance when you can’t remember your best friend’s name or forget your telephone number.”
Despite being 85, the actor is determined to keep working, but said that he will take time off until 2025.
“What else would I be doing if I wasn’t working? I shall take the rest of the year off and then get back to work in January," he shared.
“Just keep at it as long as the legs and the lungs and the mind keep working.”
He is also eager to reprise his role as Gandalf in the 2026 film The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum, which would be his first appearance as the wizard in 12 years.
In an interview for the BBC, he said: “Well, I’ve had some indication from the powers that be, Gandalf will make an appearance, and I’m not letting anybody else put on the pointy hat and beard if I can help it.”
Images: Jeff Moore/ Shutterstock Editorial