imago images/Stefan Zeitz
A performance of “Richard III” at the Berliner Schaubühne took an unexpected turn Thursday evening when lead actor Lars Eidinger accidentally struck an audience member with his sword during a fight scene. The demonstrate was immediately halted after the incident.
The Story in Brief
- During a performance of “Richard III” at the Berliner Schaubühne, Lars Eidinger unintentionally injured a spectator with his sword during a staged battle.
- The audience member suffered a head wound and was attended to by a doctor in the audience before being escorted from the theater, prompting Eidinger to end the performance.
- The condition of the injured audience member and whether future performances will proceed as scheduled remain unknown.
According to reports, the accident occurred during the climactic scene where Richard prepares for his final confrontation with Richmond.
Eidinger reportedly lost control of the prop sword, sending it flying towards the front row where it struck a woman in the head.
Lars Eidinger, 50, is a celebrated German actor and a member of the Berliner “Schaubühne” ensemble, well-known to audiences for his roles in “Werk ohne Autor” and the Netflix series “Babylon Berlin.” His work has cemented his status as a leading figure in German theater and television.
Audience Member Received Medical Attention
Reports indicate Eidinger reacted immediately, apologizing and rushing to the injured woman’s side. He too instructed stage staff to illuminate the theater.
Once the lights came up, the extent of the injury became clear: the woman was bleeding from her head. Eidinger then asked if a medical professional was present in the audience.
A doctor in the audience came forward and provided care before escorting the woman out of the theater. Eidinger was visibly shaken and subsequently called off the performance. As of Friday, February 20, 2026, the woman’s condition and the status of upcoming performances remain unclear.
“Richard III” has been a long-running success for the Berliner “Schaubühne,” with the production starring Lars Eidinger consistently selling out performances.
