Despite having appeared in numerous Shakespeare plays over the years, Sir Ian has never portrayed Falstaff before. The production, directed by Robert Icke, is described as an "ingenious adaptation" and will run in Manchester and London next year.

"Player Kings" will open in March, with performances at the New Wimbledon Theatre and Manchester Opera House, followed by a 12-week run in London's West End at the Noël Coward Theatre from April to June. Sir Ian expressed his excitement about the role, stating that he found Icke's adaptation irresistible.

Known for his extensive Shakespearean roles, including Richard II, Coriolanus, Iago, Richard III, King Lear, and Macbeth, Sir Ian McKellen has a storied career in both theater and film.

He is set to star as Hamlet in an upcoming film adaptation directed by Sean Mathias. In addition to his stage work, Sir Ian has had prominent screen roles, such as Magneto in the X-Men films and Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

"Player Kings" will condense and reorganize the text of Henry IV, Parts One and Two into one production, with the character of Falstaff being a central figure in the play.

Falstaff is a companion to Prince Hal, the future King Henry V. The production promises to be an exciting addition to Sir Ian's impressive Shakespearean repertoire.