Rylance axes shows after brother’s death

PERFORMANCES of the West End show Jerusalem have been cancelled this weekend after Sir Mark Rylance’s brother was killed in a cycling accident.

Jonathan Waters, the Oscar winner’s 60-year-old brother, was riding in Oakland, California, when he was hit by a vehicle.

The sommelier suffered severe head injuries and died the following morning. Sir Mark, 62, is to attend the funeral in California this weekend. Ticket holders for Jerusalem at the Apollo Theatre today and tomorrow have been told the shows have been cancelled.

Additional performances will be scheduled to ensure those who missed out this weekend will be able to attend at a later date.

Sir Mark said in a statement: “I am so sorry to tell you that on May 28 my dear brother Jonathan Waters was knocked from his bicycle and tragically died of his injuries.

“To attend his funeral in California, I unfortunately have to miss three performances of Jerusalem over June 11 and 12. As I have no understudy as Johnny ‘Rooster’ Byron, sadly these performances have been cancelled.”

Sir Mark added: “I hope you understand my need to grieve my beloved brother and thank you for your support at this time.”