People News

Leona Lewis punched by fan

Oct 15, 2009, 9:36 GMT

Leona Lewis. Lewis was happily signing books for fans when an unidentified man in the queue approached her and suddenly attacked without any warning. .Solarpix / PR Photos

Leona Lewis was punched in the face by a fan at a book signing yesterday (14.10.09).

The 'Bleeding Love' singer was autographing copies of her new book 'Dreams' at a shop in London's Piccadilly district when the 6ft 5ins man attacked her.

The man, who is not from the UK and is known only as Peter, waited patiently in line to speak to Leona.

When he reached the front of the queue he lashed out, after which five of Leona's security team jumped on him and pinned him down.

As Leona, 24, ran away, Peter shouted: "I love you Leona!"

She responded: "I don't love you!"

Witness Emily Rose said: "It was horrendous. She let out a piercing scream and grabbed her temple. Security piled on this guy and Leona just started running."

Fan Steve Caris added: "This bloke looked like a nutcase. He really walloped Leona. She must have been in agony."

Leona's mother Maria and boyfriend Lou Al-Chamaa accompanied her to the event, and Lou had to be physically restrained as he attempted to confront her attacker.

Leona was immediately taken to London's Harley Street Hospital where she was checked for concussion.

She was due to appear on a UK TV show in the evening, but pulled out as she was too upset.

A source explained: "She's very shaken. She keeps asking why anyone would want to hurt her. Leona's the sweetest, most mild-mannered girl. It was like kicking a kitten."

Peter has been arrested on suspicion of actually bodily harm, and Leona is believed to be keen to press charges.

Simon Cowell, who mentored Leona when she won the 2006 series of UK TV talent show 'The X Factor', has called the star to offer his support.

Sharon Osbourne, who was a judge on Leona's series of the show, was also furious to hear of the incident.

She said: "He should have the s**t kicked out of him for that. She is the most lovely, genuine person ever. If I saw him, I would kick the s**t out of him."

Leona's spokesman said: "Leona is obviously shocked after yesterday but is OK. She would like to convey her thanks to everyone for their kind messages and support."