Cape Town – Mthokozisi Ndaba says he tried to hide his gunshot wounds from Idols producers as he feared it might end his reality show journey before it had even begun.
On Sunday night's episode Mthokozisi auditioned at the Durban leg of the competition and impressed all four judges landing him in the next round of the competition – Theatre Week. (Watch his audition here.)
Getting that golden ticket was a life-changing moment says Mthokozisi during a telephone interview.
His dream became a nightmare
"For me it was a new start and a new opportunity to show the industry my musical abilities. And it was also an opportunity for me to help others."
His celebration however was short-lived when he was attacked, robbed and shot at his home shortly after.
"I was in my yard, celebrating my golden ticket and preparing for Theatre Week."
He continues: "The next thing I know somebody hit me with the back of a gun. Beat me up and then shot me. They got away with my laptop, guitar and even tried to steal my car. The police say the case is still under investigation."
He was shot in both his legs at close range, luckily the bullets exited the wounds.
It took him a month to recover from his injuries and he had some time to get into shape before heading on to Theatre Week.
"It is by the grace of God – I don’t know how I made it to Theatre Week. I was limping and holding onto the walls and railings."
He continues: "I tried to hide it from the producers but they picked it up. I thought that I would be disqualified but they told me that I had nothing to worry about."
Mthokozisi is positive about his Idols journey and hopes that viewers will vote for him if he makes it through to the next round.
Tune in to Idols SA every Sunday at 17:30 on Mzansi Magic (DStv 161).