TV and film actor Craig Palm has pulled out of the theatre show Blood Knot, citing health reasons.
Palm, who portrayed the role of Morris, withdrew after weeks of rehearsing the show alongside Mncedisi Shabangu. He has been replaced by Francois Jacobs who started rehearsing the show yesterday.
Director of the show, James Ngcobo, said the replacement of Palm will not affect the show’s opening night scheduled for October 15. Ngcobo said when Palm told him that he was pulling out he had to think on his feet and find his replacement fast.
“It is unfortunate that Craig will no longer perform in Blood Knot, but we support his decision and wish him well,” Ngcobo said.
“I had to find someone who is experienced and capable as an actor like Francois Jacobs. When he told me it was crazy because you are never ready for such a thing. Francois started yesterday and he had to dive in wholeheartedly because there is no time. Francois has done some work with the Market Theatre and outside it and it is somebody that I know well.
“What is happening is not an unusual thing. It happens to the best actors and theatres around the whole world. Sometimes the actor pulls out of the show just four days before the opening and the show must go on. For Mncedisi, who gets to do the show with two different people, this will be a interesting moment. On his first day, Francois did well and I am pleased. I know he will rise to the occasion.”
Jacobs has starred in Athol Fugard’s show People Are Living There and directed a show called Brothers which premiered to a full house at the Market Theatre last year.
When approached for comment, Palm said he had no comment and referred all calls to his agency.
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