Comedian Paul Whitehouse Fights Off Mugger at London Cashpoint
Whitehouse's wife urges public vigilance after the incident, which occurred as he was picking up medication.
Comedian Paul Whitehouse thwarted a mugging attempt at a cashpoint in north London, his wife, Dr. Mine Conkbayir, announced. The incident occurred on Essex Road in Islington as Whitehouse was on his way to collect medication for his wife, who had recently experienced a severe reaction to treatment.
According to Dr. Conkbayir, an assailant attempted to snatch Whitehouse's card. The actor fought back and successfully retrieved his card, prompting the mugger to flee empty-handed. "He did fight back and retrieved his card, with the perp scuttling away empty-handed," Dr. Conkbayir stated on social media. "But that's not the point, is it. So, please, everyone - I don't mean to patronise, but please be super vigilant out there."
Whitehouse, known for his roles in "The Fast Show" and "The Office," has been with Dr. Conkbayir, an ADHD advocate and neuroscientist, for over two decades. They married in 2019 and share a daughter. Despite living in separate households, they reside near each other in North London.
Dr. Conkbayir, who holds a PhD in early childhood education and neuroscience, has spoken publicly about the importance of support for families with neurodivergent children. She and Whitehouse co-host a podcast titled "I'm ADHD! No You're Not." The couple recently appeared on BBC Breakfast to discuss the Fonagy Review into ADHD and Autism, calling for government action on the issue.
The incident involving Whitehouse adds to a series of crimes that have drawn attention in London. Figures suggest a rise in crime in the city since the current mayor took office. Previous incidents highlighted in media reports include the theft of valuable items from the wife of Formula 1 driver Jenson Button and the phone robbery of actress Genevieve Chennour. The Metropolitan Police have been approached for comment on the incident involving Whitehouse.