Zac Efron has thanked fans as he broke his silence on falling ill in Papua New Guinea with what was reported to be a life-threatening illness.
Last night it emerged Zac was reportedly rushed to hospital ahead of Christmas on a ‘life-or-death’ flight after contracting a deadly illness while filming in Papua New Guinea.
The star, 32, was overseas filming Killing Zac Efron when he reportedly took ill with a ‘form of typhoid or similar bacterial infection’ in the days leading up to Christmas. With the assistance of medical professionals, Zac was allegedly flown to Brisbane, Australia from Papua New Guinea, according to The Sunday Telegraph.
Now the actor has addressed the concern as he posted a jubilant shot from the PNG surrounded by waving locals.
Taking to Instagram on Sunday night, the High School Musical star wrote: ‘Very thankful to everyone who has reached out.
‘I did get sick in Papua New Guinea but I bounced back quick and finished an amazing 3 weeks in P.N.G.
‘I’m home for the holidays with my friends and family. Thanks for all the love and concern, see you in 2020!’
Fans were relieved to see the man back in action on social media.
‘Glad to hear you’re OK, gave us all a scare, hoping for a quick recovery,’ one wrote. ‘Happy holidays brother.’
Another simply added: ‘I’m so glad you’re better xx.’
It was claimed Zac was admitted to St Andrews War Memorial Hospital in Spring Hill ‘in a stable condition’ and given the all-clear to fly home to the US on Christmas Eve.
According to the newspaper, Dr Glenn McKay, Director of Medical Rescue, the organisation that oversaw Efron’s flight, declined to confirm the patient was the Hollywood star, but confirmed the organisation ‘retrieved a US citizen in his 30s from PNG to Brisbane for medical attention in Australia’.
Last month it was announced Zac would be starring and executive producing his own adventure series.
Killing Zac Efron will focus on the actor venturing ‘deep into the jungles of a remote, dangerous island to carve his own name in expedition history’, in Bear Grylls, Man vs. Wild fashion.
He was said to be going off-grid for 21 days with ‘nothing but basic gear, a guide partner and a will to survive’.
At the time he said of the challenge: ‘I tend to thrive under extreme circumstances and seek out opportunities that challenge me on every level. ‘I am excited to explore any uncharted territory and discover what unexpected adventure awaits!’
Zac was seen in photos posted on social media by Wewak tour guide Cyril Tara, who spoke about escorting the star around the island country.
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