Ian McKellen listened to the doctor’s orders and decided not to attend The Christophers premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
“Better safe than sorry,” the actor, 86, said in a pre-taped introduction at the Sunday, September 7, screening, per Variety.
McKellen added that he backed out of the appearance after “medical advisers” told him he should not fly.
“If you enjoy it, will you tell your friends?” McKellen told the audience in the clip. “That’s partly what festivals are about, isn’t it?”
Ian McKellen Speaks Out After Hospitalization
In addition to McKellen, The Christophers stars Michaela Coel, Jessica Gunning and James Corden. The black comedy tells the story of a group of estranged children of a well-known artist who attempt to hire a forger to complete their fathe