A Difficult Conversation for the Home and Away Family

Emily Weir, known to fans as Mackenzie Booth on Home and Away, has spoken for the first time about the moment she learned that former co-star Orpheus Pledger had been sent to prison. The actor played Mason Morgan from 2016 until his departure in 2019. Pledger’s legal troubles escalated in September when he received a six-month prison sentence, a development that left many cast members stunned.

Weir shared her reflections on the A Bit Rogue podcast, explaining that Pledger’s dramatic fall from grace had been painful to watch. Many on set had lost contact with him after his exit, yet whispers had begun long before the court headlines.

Troubling Signs Before the Arrest

Weir recalled the unsettling period in 2021 when Pledger posted explicit content online, including a video taken in the shower. The cast grew worried. “There were people still in touch with him, so there were whisperings,” she said. It was clear something was wrong, but he had already left the show by then.

“Once you leave, you are no longer part of the Home and Away brand,” she added, speaking carefully and with compassion. She described the series as a workplace that sees many actors come and go. Some transitions bring joy, but others come with deep challenges. “This is what happens with addiction,” Weir continued. “It is terrible for all involved. If you don’t want to change, no one can help you.”

Inside the Court Case and Prison Sentence

Pledger, 32, breached multiple court orders linked to an earlier conviction for attacking a woman twice in March 2024. One attack, captured on security footage, showed him dragging the victim and stomping on her head. A seven-month sentence was initially reduced, allowing him to serve a community correction order, but he repeatedly violated its conditions.

The court cited 19 missed appointments, drug use involving methamphetamine and cannabis, and attempts to avoid required testing. He also returned to the victim’s property while on bail, prompting another arrest.

Judge Michael Tinney told him he had “frittered away his opportunity,” leaving the court no alternative but imprisonment.

A Cautionary Tale for the Industry

Weir did not shy away from the sadness surrounding the case. She described Pledger as a talented performer who began acting as a child, working on Silversun, Neighbours, and eventually Home and Away. His story, she suggested, is a powerful reminder of what addiction can destroy.

In closing, she urged anyone facing similar struggles to seek support, highlighting that help is available and recovery is possible.