Ashley: Tributes pouring in
by Sanri van Wyk
2008-02-17 23:13
Johannesburg - SMSes, e-mail, calls and letters expressing condolences at Isidingo star Ashley Callie's death are still pouring in.
Ashley, a key figure in the popular SABC3 soapie, died in Johannesburg General Hospital on Friday, from brain injuries after a car crash.
She was injured last Friday when her Smart car and a Renault Scenic crashed head-on in Emmarentia, Johannesburg.
Four of the six occupants of the other car were critically injured.
Ashley, who played the role of Lee Haines, is to be cremated in Johannesburg at a private service for family.
Her agent, Mairi Surtees-Cameron, said a memorial service for her colleagues and the public would be held later in the week.
Surtees-Cameron said the Isidingo management were involved in arranging the memorial service.
There would be a tribute from the soapie to Ashley at the memorial.
"We haven't yet decided on the day and time, but we think it might be on Thursday in Johannesburg."
Surtees-Cameron said she was still being swamped with condolences about Ashley's death.
Plot will have to be changed
She said the actress's family were "holding it together" and were "strong at present".
Shortly after the crash, the soapie announced that the plot which directly related to Ashley's character would be changed.
A spokesperson for the series said they would wait until after the memorial service before making further plans.
Minister of Arts and Culture Pallo Jordan expressed his condolence in a news release.
"Callie was special. Her life exemplified African talent that came to the fore after the end of apartheid.
"Her presence was an important ingredient in Isidingo.
"Her life is a cornerstone for a new wave of colour-blind theatre. Her acting helped pave the way for a television audience to embrace a non-racial society," he said.