George Harrison: Thanks

Two weeks after he was stabbed in his home near London, George Harrison on Saturday expressed thanks to all the people who wished him well.

"Olivia and I are overwhelmed by the concern expressed by so many people. We thank everyone for their prayers and kindness," the former Beatle said from Ireland in his first public statement since the attack.

Harrison, 56, released a statement and photograph exclusively to The Associated Press through a longtime friend in Los Angeles.

The photograph taken Saturday (see above) showed Harrison and wife, Olivia, on vacation in Ireland.

Harrison received a serious knife wound to the chest that collapsed his right lung while fighting off the intruder during the Dec. 30 attack. Harrison's 51-year-old wife, Olivia, also was scratched and bruised in the scuffle at their mansion at Henley-on-Thames, 25 miles west of London.

Michael Abram, 33, was charged with attempted murder in the attack on the reclusive guitarist and his wife. Abram was admitted to a psychiatric unit for observation. His next court appearance is set for Feb. 11.

Harrison's song credits include Something, My Sweet Lord, Here Comes the Sun, While My Guitar Gently Weeps and All Those Years Ago.

©2000 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed