ITV News at Ten host Rageh Omaar has broken his silence after sparking concern when he fell ill live on air last night (April 26).
The newsreader was wrapping up the bulletin when viewers noticed that something was wrong. He was seen stumbling over his words and struggling to finish the show.
Later, on ITV1 +1, the show was pulled from air with a message appearing on screen that said: “We’ll be back soon. We’re temporarily unable to bring you our +1 service. We will resume shortly.”
Earlier today, ITV released a short statement about the popular newsreader after huge concern from viewers of the late-night news bulletin. Now, a longer, more detailed statement has been released.
What was going on during ITV News with Rageh Omaar tonight?
Clearly something because the news is not being re-broadcast on ITV+1. pic.twitter.com/G005bPBeaR— Dan Wootton (@danwootton) April 26, 2024
ITV News host Rageh Omaar falls ill live on air
Viewers shared their concerns for the newsreader as the ITV News at Ten went off air last night.
Taking to Twitter, one said: “Disturbing to see Rageh Omaar struggling with what looks like a medical issue. It’s terrifying when you’re at work but know something is terribly wrong (I’ve been there) but you think I need to carry on. I hope he’s okay,” said one.
Rageh became unwell while presenting News at Ten on Friday and is now receiving medical care.
Another commented: “Something DESPERATELY wrong with ITV newsreader, Rageh Omaar, reader of tonight’s News at Ten. Desperately hope he’s okay.” Another then added: “I hope Omaar is doing okay after watching this on ITV.”
Others criticised ITV and said that the show should’ve been halted and Rageh taken off air as soon as it was clear something was wrong.
“He should have been taken off once it became obvious he wasn’t right. Poor guy,” said one.
Statement from ITV
A spokesperson for ITV confirmed that Rageh did fall “unwell” during the bulletin. The statement continued to thank viewers for their concerns and confirmed that Rageh is receiving “medical care”.
The statement read: “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.”
Late this afternoon, ITV News shared a new statement.
It said: “We appreciate viewers of last night’s News at Ten were concerned about Rageh Omaar’s wellbeing. Following medical treatment at hospital, he is now recovering at home with his family.
“We are wishing Rageh a speedy recovery and look forward to him being back on screen when he feels ready.”
The newsreader himself added: “I would like to thank everyone for their kindness and good wishes, especially all the medical staff, all my wonderful colleagues at ITV News, and our viewers who expressed concern. At the time, I was determined to finish presenting the programme. I am grateful for all the support I’ve been given.”
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