×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Star puts on brave face after attack

LEONA LEWIS is staying positive after being attacked by a fan.

LEONA LEWIS is staying positive after being attacked by a fan.

The Bleeding Love singer was left badly bruised after being punched in the face by a mentally unbalanced devotee who had queued for hours to meet her at a London book signing two weeks ago.

Speaking about the incident for the first time, Leona - who rose to fame after winning the 2006 series of British TV talent show The X Factor - said the incident was an unfortunate side effect of her success.

She said: "It could have been worse. I'm still alive.

"It is just something you have to deal with when you have fame and the positives far outweigh the negatives.

"I don't like to dwell on the negatives. I'm a very positive person."

Following the attack Peter Kowalczyk, himself a former contestant from The X Factor, was detained by Leona's security team. Police later charged him with assault.

Kowalczyk was then sectioned under the Mental Health Act and deemed unfit to appear at a hearing at a London court on Monday.

Leona - who cancelled a promotional tour of Germany following the attack - also said she's not going to hire extra security to protect her, as she already has enough people "looking out" for her.

Leona also said she believes she would have made it as a top singer even if she hadn't entered The X Factor. - Bang

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.