Callie: 'We are shocked'

2008-02-09 12:00

Johannesburg - Isidingo soap star Ashley Callie is out of surgery and in a stable condition after she was involved in a car accident on Friday night, an executive producer of the soap said.

"She is now in ICU and Recovery at Johannesburg General Hospital, and has remained unconscious since the accident occured... We are just asking everyone to pray for her and show support to the family," producer Pumla Hopa said.

Callie, 32, underwent surgery after suffering severe head injuries. She was reported to have been in a critical condition earlier. The surgery allowed doctors to alleviate the pressure on her brain.

The accident took place at the corner of 4th Avenue and Tana Road at around 22:30 on Friday night, said Johannesburg Metro police spokesperson Superintendent Wayne Minnaar.

Minnaar said Callie was driving alone in a Smart Car, when there was a head-on collision with a red Renault.

"We are not sure about what the exact cause of the accident was, but police are investigating," Minnar said.

The driver of the Renault, a male, and two female passengers were also seriously injured and transported to Milpark hospital.

Hopa said the producers and fellow actors were in shock at the incident.

"We are shocked at what has happened to Ashleigh. She is such a wonderful person and actress...we are saddened," Hopa said.

Callie is known for her role as Lee Haynes in Isidingo

Award-winning actress

According to the Isidingo website, Ashley Callie studied a BA Dramatic Art degree with Honours at Wits University.

She then spent some time in London and worked as a chef. Since returning to South Africa, she has opened her own restaurant, the La Vista Social Club, in Mellville, Johannesburg.

In 2006, she was awarded the South African Film & Television Best Actress award for her work as the no-nonsense daughter of the conniving Barker Haynes in Isidingo.

Earlier this year, Isidingo actors were told to stay at home due to contractual problems between the show's producers and the SABC that put production on hold. .

- SAPA