Melbourne, Australia – Former “Home and Away” actor Orpheus Pledger has admitted to a horrifying attack on a woman, captured on CCTV footage. The 31-year-old, best known for his role as Mason Morgan in the popular Australian soap opera, was seen on video dragging a woman by her hair and stomping on her head.
After the incident, Orpheus was granted bail on April 22, with the condition that he undergo a court-ordered mental health evaluation. However, following his release, he fled from the hospital, sparking a widespread manhunt across Australia. He was later apprehended after a warrant for his arrest was issued.
The initial arrest occurred when police responded to a residence in Melbourne in the early hours of the morning. CCTV footage revealed the actor chasing the woman outside, pulling her by her hair, pushing her to the ground, and stomping on her. The victim sustained bruises on her face and head, prompting a distressing emergency call at 1:35 am.
Authorities reported hearing the chilling words “he’s coming” before the call abruptly ended. Orpheus was arrested the same day and has remained in custody since. He has confessed to the assault, with his lawyer attributing the incident to mental health and drug issues that escalated after missing out on a role in a US drama.
Despite the defense arguing for a community corrections order as a more fitting punishment, the prosecution emphasized the seriousness of the offense. The magistrate decided to assess Orpheus for a community corrections order before sentencing, stating uncertainty about whether the issue was related to mental health or drug abuse.
The case has been adjourned for sentencing until July 3rd. Orpheus Pledger, known for his roles in “Silversun,” “Neighbours,” and “Home and Away,” has faced repercussions for his actions. Most recently, he appeared on SAS Australia before his involvement in the assault.