Survivor hottie cashing in
2006-10-03 08:30
Cape Town - Survivor SA's Gareth Tjasink - aka the Archer's Aqua guy - has become the first contestant of the local reality series to cash in on his fame by signing a contract as the face of cellphone content provider 35050.
Gareth is reportedly 35050's "brand name ambassador".
Cellphone users will be able to download photos and other information about Gareth exclusively from 35050.
Gareth meanwhile returned to his internship as doctor at Chris Hani-Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto where he will work for three months before going to another hospital.
He said on Monday that he is also looking forward to a future in the TV industry.
"I don't think to be a doctor and a career in the entertainment industry are mutually exclusive. A medical career could be very flexible - the first few years are rough and you are told where to work and for how long, but eventually you could work fewer hours.
"A career in the media industry could be to my benefit because I could use the exposure to focus attention on a special medical issue close to my heart."
The entire Survivor SA series has been filmed, apart from the final episode, which will be broadcast live.
Gareth, who examines patients every day, said it is strange to be recognised by the public.
"All of a sudden I'm receiving invitations to parties and free drinks. I'm being treated as a VIP. I'm still going to work every day and I see patients. I have the same responsibilities as before - and the same work schedule!"