Ian McKellen Reveals How Fat Suit Helped After 'Horrible' Stage Fall

Sir Ian McKellen, recovering from a stage fall, says his fat suit helped protect him. He’s being cared for by friends and still feels pain from the accident.

Sir Ian McKellen, the celebrated British actor, recently shared a dramatic account of an accident on stage. At 84, McKellen was performing in a play at London’s Noel Coward Theatre, portraying John Falstaff in Player Kings, when he took a serious fall during a fight scene.

Sir Ian McKellen as Falstaff in Player Kings [PA Archive]

Known for his iconic role as Gandalf in "The Lord of the Rings," McKellen was dressed in a fat suit for his role as Falstaff. He believes the suit helped protect him from severe injuries. He’s still in recovery, with his neck in a brace and his right hand in a splint.

In a chat with Saga magazine, McKellen detailed the accident. His foot got trapped in a chair, causing him to slide on some newspaper scattered on the stage. He ended up falling down a step and landing in a front-row audience member’s lap. 

He cried out for help and was quickly taken to the hospital. The play was canceled for the rest of its run.

McKellen spoke about his experience, something like this: “I started screaming 'help me!' and then 'I’m sorry! I don’t do this!' Extraordinary things. I thought it was the end of something. It was very upsetting.”

McKellen admitted he’s still in pain from chipped vertebrae and a fractured wrist. He’s spending more time at home, worried about being bumped into. 

Thankfully, he’s surrounded by supportive friends. Four close friends, including two couples, are taking care of his shopping and cooking needs.

Even though he’s in pain, McKellen remains upbeat. He’s committed to continuing his acting career and views his work as a way to keep his mind off aging. “It was just a bloody accident,” he said. “I’m not too old to act.”