POPULAR LOCAL ACTOR ATTACKED IN KNYSNA

Much-loved South African actor and soap star Terence Bridgett has been injured by two assailants while shooting a movie in Knysna.

According to various news sources, Bridgett, who is well known in the gay community, was staying at a home rented for the duration of the shoot when he was attacked by the suspects.

The Knysna Plett Herald reported that they beat and strangled him until he lost consciousness. His phone, bank cards and wallet were stolen.

His agent, Carlynn De Waal-Smit, confirmed the incident to the SABC.

“Two men came into the house. They attacked him, broke a couple of his ribs, kicked him around, strangled him and basically left with a few minor things, his cellphone,” she said.

De Waal-Smit added: “He went into hospital, he is fine and he spent most of the day relaxing and he will be back ready for action.”

It appears that the motive for the attack was robbery. There have been no arrests.

Self-described as a “soap slut,” Bridgett has appeared in a host of soaps over the years, such as Isidingo, Erfsondes, 7de Laan, Binneland Sub Judice and Backstage.

His roles have ranged from serious to flamboyant and have included dancing and singing in popular international musicals and in his own cabaret production, All Soaped Up.

Many will also remember Bridgett from gay stage favourites, Love! Valour! Compassion! and My Night with Reg. He recently co-hosted the travel series Rough or Smooth, the Mr. Gay South Africa™ 2012/13 Grand Finale and starred in last year’s comedy film Jimmy in Pienk.