Melbourne, Australia – Orpheus Pledger, known for his role as Mason Morgan on the popular soap opera “Home and Away,” has admitted to a violent assault on a woman earlier this year. Pledger entered his guilty plea during a court session conducted via video link from jail, where he has been detained since April after violating bail conditions.
The incident occurred in March when the woman, fearing for her safety and Pledger’s mental state, dialed emergency services. The call was abruptly disconnected after she expressed immediate concern for her presence being detected by Pledger.
When police arrived at the scene, they found the woman with multiple injuries including bruises and lacerations indicative of a severe physical assault. Emergency medical teams provided immediate care, and she was subsequently hospitalized for the injuries sustained, which included signs of an attempted strangulation.
Pledger, 30, was arrested at the scene and initially granted bail. However, his bail was revoked following his departure from the hospital, where he was awaiting a mental health evaluation. This breach led to his current incarceration as he awaits further legal proceedings.
The court heard from Pledger’s defense attorney, Jasper MacCuspie, who outlined a series of personal and professional setbacks that preceded the assault. According to MacCuspie, Pledger’s mental health began to spiral following his exit from “Home and Away” and a subsequent professional disappointment. He was slated to join the cast of “The 100,” a drama series, but the opportunity fell through at the last minute, which MacCuspie described as a “destabilizing event” for Pledger.
Furthermore, MacCuspie highlighted Pledger’s struggles with drug addiction, specifically his use of methylamphetamine. His ongoing battle with substance abuse has been challenging, with a prior arrest in 2021 for drug possession adding to his troubled profile.
The judge has set a sentencing date for July 3, where Pledger will face the consequences of his actions. The court anticipates a range of possible outcomes, including substantial jail time, which will be determined based on the severity of the assault and Pledger’s personal circumstances.
Pledger’s case has drawn significant media attention due to his former celebrity status and the shocking nature of the crime. As the community and his fans await the final judgment, discussions about mental health and support systems for public figures continue to arise.
This incident has brought to light the pressures and hidden struggles faced by individuals in the entertainment industry, prompting calls for better mental health support and awareness. As Pledger awaits sentencing, many hope this case will also raise awareness of domestic violence and the importance of addressing mental health issues comprehensively.