Sir Ian McKellen 'looking forward' to return to work after mid-show fall

In a social media post, Sir McKellen thanked everyone for their kind messages and support and said he is "hugely indebted" to the hospital staff who cared for him.

"They have assured me that my recovery will be complete and speedy."

The 85-year-old plunged from the audience's view when he lost his footing during an on-stage battle.

The Lord of the Rings star was reportedly conscious and cried out for help before being rushed to the hospital where he underwent scans.

"He picked up momentum as he moved downstage which resulted in him falling off the stage directly in front of the audience," audience member Paul Critchley told the PA news agency, saying it was a shock.

The house lights came up and the audience was evacuated from London's Noël Coward Theatre.

Another audience member Jeremy Chance posted on Facebook that he first "thought it was some modern theatre theatrics".

But Mr Chance said Sir McKellen could then be heard screaming "Help me! Help me! Help me!".

They were told the show had been cancelled for the evening. Tickets to shows throughout the week remain available on the theatre's site.

"He gave a wonderful performance. At 85 he seems very alive. But falling off a stage for a guy that old is not a good thing."

A spokesperson for the Noël Coward Theatre thanked the audience and general public for their well wishes after McKellen's fall.

"Thank you to doctors Rachel and Lee who were on hand in the audience and to all the venue staff for their support," the spokesperson said.

"Following a scan, the brilliant [National Health Service] team have assured us that he will make a speedy and full recovery and Ian is in good spirits."

Sir Ian was performing as Sir John Falstaff in a production of Player Kings at the West End theatre.

The play is a production of Shakespeare's Henry IV: Parts one and two, adapted and directed by writer Robert Icke.

The play's 12-week run began in April.