Paul Whitehouse, the 68-year-old star of the BBC series Gone Fishing, was reportedly targeted by a mugger in a terrifying ordeal in north London this weekend while out buying medicine for his wife. The attempted mugging took place on Friday night at a cashpoint on Essex Road in Islington.
Comedian fights back after card snatched
According to his wife, Dr Mine Conkbayir, the comedian bravely fought back after the mugger snatched his bank card. Paul managed to wrestle the card back, with the would-be thief reportedly fleeing the scene empty-handed.
Speaking about the frightening incident on Instagram, Dr Conkbayir said: “Well, a horrid start to the weekend, would be an understatement. Yesterday, I had a bad reaction to some treatment, which has left me feeling rather rotten. So, last night, Paul dashed out to get me some meds. He was mugged on Essex Road (Islington) - at the cashpoint beside the Sainsbury's Local. He did fight back and retrieved his card, with the perp scuttling away empty-handed. But that's not the point, is it.”
Wife urges vigilance after incident
Dr Conkbayir said she was writing the post to raise awareness and warned people to stay “super vigilant”.
“I kept shtum, out of respect, but he just came over, having taken our daughter to football, still frustrated. I asked whether he'd like me to post - he said yes - in the hope that it might help folk to be more aware when out and about. So, please, everyone - I don't mean to patronise, but please be super vigilant out there.”
Support from friends and fans
Paul received an outpouring of support and best wishes from friends, fellow actors and members of the public. Actor Georgina Hagen commented: “This is awful. I’m so sorry to read this. Sending love to you both and thank goodness he’s ok!”
“Hope it hasn't shaken you up too much Paul. Picked on the wrong chap though. Scary stuff,” another person added. Deborah Frances-White, the host of the Guilty Feminist podcast added: “Oh my god I’m so sorry. Sending you both so much love. Xx”
