Sir Ian McKellen is rushed to hospital after the actor, 85, falls off stage during a performance of Player Kings at London’s Noel Coward Theatre: audience cries

Sir Ian McKellen was rushed to hospital after falling off stage during a performance at a London theater this evening.

The 85-year-old actor was involved in a fight scene during a performance of Player Kings at the Noël Coward Theater when he lost his balance and fell off the front of the stage.

Audiences have been evacuated from London’s West End theater and have been informed that the evening show has been cancelled, the BBC reports.

It is understood that Sir Ian, who plays John Falstaff, was spinning around in a battle scene involving the Prince of Wales and Henry Percy, when he fell off the stage. The actor is said to have screamed in pain as staff rushed to help him.

The extent of the Lord of the Rings actor’s injuries is unknown at this time. MailOnline has contacted its representatives for comment.

Player Kings, which began its 12-week run in the West End in April, is a production of Henry IV, Parts One and Two.

Those present in the audience shared their surprise at the incident. One tweeted: “Just witnessed a terrible accident where Sir Ian McKellen fell off the stage in London.” He appears seriously injured. “We are all in shock and crying.”

Another wrote: ‘Audience shocked by Sir Ian McKellen’s fall from the stage tonight at the Noel Coward Theatre. The staff works hard to help you. Thoughts with him, the cast and crew.’

And a third said: “Shocking to see, it was a terrible fall.” Hoping he’s not seriously injured, he seemed to be in a lot of pain.’

This is breaking news. More to follow.

Sir Ian McKellen (centre) bows to the curtain during the press night screening of ‘Player Kings’ at the Noel Coward Theater on April 11.