After Rageh Omaar fell “unwell” while hosting the ITV News at Ten on April 26, a new report claims he refused to hand over his bulletin to a stand-in anchor.
On Friday night, Rageh was seen stumbling over his words during the bulletin. Viewers were quick to voice their concern on Twitter, with many sharing a video of Rageh struggling as he signed off the show – something which angered his colleague Charlene White.
One intensive care nurse also tweeted to claim that she had called ITV News to warn them that something wasn’t right with Rageh earlier on in the show. She was one of a number of people hitting out at the broadcaster after Rageh fell ill.
Rageh Omaar on ITV News
Since then, a source has claimed to the Mail on Sunday that Rageh refused to hand his bulletin over. The insider said: “The programme team were trying to replace him when they realised there was a problem.
“They sent the standby presenter to the set to take over but he insisted on remaining on air. No-one could get him out of his chair. He refused to move. Even when he was told he had to go and that the team had called for medical help. Everyone did everything they could to help him. Rageh is a consummate professional.
“He was determined to finish what he had started. It was an awful, awful night.”
A rep for Regeh had no comment when approached by ED!. ED! has contacted ITV News for comment.
Charlene White hits out over Rageh Omaar’s illness
It comes after Loose Women anchor and fellow ITV newsreader Charlene took to her Instagram account to send her support to her colleague.
She posted: “How about everyone stops posting and re-posting a video of a man becoming unwell on live TV. Who does that benefit? Sometimes real life isn’t just about upping your engagement figures and upping your likes.”
It was a horrible watch and I really hope he’s feeling better.
“My thoughts exactly Charlene. Honestly this world,” Denise Welch commented.
Another follower added: “Why did no one step in and help him out? It was a horrible watch and I really hope he’s feeling better.”
Another than said: “Couldn’t believe my eyes, so distressing to see it unfolding. I hope he’s okay and wish him a speedy recovery.”
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ITV blasted by intensive care nurse
Others said the incident raised “big questions about duty of care”.
“Why did ITV not immediately stop the broadcast and provide help?” one asked.
Fiona Clark, an intensive care nurse, claimed that she had called the broadcaster at 10.10pm and to warn them of possible stroke symptoms and urged them to call an ambulance for the newsreader.
She posted on Twitter: “Absolutely shocked at the lack of urgency to get medical attention.” She then claimed: “I told them their presenter was unwell, they told me they were aware. Hoping he is receiving the proper care now.”
ITV News and reps for Rageh Omaar declined to comment when contacted by ED!.
ITV said previously: “We are aware that viewers are concerned about Rageh Omaar’s wellbeing. Rageh became unwell while presenting News at Ten on Friday and is now receiving medical care. He thanks everyone for their well wishes.”
Read more: ITV News’ Alastair Stewart reveals dementia diagnosis
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