Sir Ian McKellen had said he is having “physiotherapy, light exercise and a lot of essential rest at home” after three nights in hospital following a fall from the stage during a production of Player Kings.

The veteran screen and stage actor, 85, was performing at the Noel Coward Theatre when he lost his footing in a fight scene and fell from the stage on Monday.

His understudy is set to replace him for the play’s final London dates from Thursday after the show was cancelled for several nights due to his fall.

A statement sent on his behalf by his publicist Clair Dobbs said: “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.

“Meanwhile, my part in Player Kings is filled by the redoubtable David Semark supported by Robert Icke’s amazing production and cast.

“The many messages of love and support will, I am sure, aid the speedy recovery that my doctors have promised me.”

The final London dates of the production, Player Kings, will see Sir Ian’s understudy take on the role of Falstaff.

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