Rageh Omaar appears to become unwell while hosting ITV News
Rageh Omaar allegedly “insisted” he continue his ITV report despite taking ill live on air. The journalist sparked concern among News at Ten viewers after struggling to read his news bulletin.
On Friday (April 26), Rageh, 56, appeared to be having some difficulty reading the autocue on the ITV flagship. After stumbling through headlines, the broadcaster eventually signed off and sat back from his desk in relief.
Following the incident, the broadcaster revealed that he had received “medical treatment” and was now “recovering” from the ordeal at home with his family. Rageh has also updated worried fans, and claimed he was “determined to finish presenting the programme”.
“I am grateful for all the support I've been given,” he added. Despite his resolve, ITV bosses allegedly wanted to “replace” the floundering star with a relief presenter.
An ITV News insider told The Mail on Sunday: “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.”
They claimed that Rageh “refused to move” from his position and doubled down on wanting to finish the programme despite a medical team being called.
“Everyone did everything they could to help him, they added. “Rageh is a consummate professional.”
Following the on-air incident, ITV decided to pull the news show from its scheduled re-run on ITV+1.
Instead of the regular proceedings, a message read that ITV was "temporarily unable to bring you our +1 service. We will resume shortly.”
Social media was quick to comment on the journalist’s state, with one ICU nurse claiming to have called executives herself to express anxiety over his health.
Don't miss...
ITV News' Rageh Omaar breaks silence after falling ill live on air [INSIGHT]
BBC Breakfast Rachel Burden sparks frenzy as fans beg for 'permanent role' [PHOTOS]
James Martin vows guest 'won't appear on show again' after huge blunder [REACTION]
She took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and wrote: “I am an ICU nurse that worked in stroke and I called ITV directly and said he looks like he is having a stroke that is a medical emergency call an ambulance please.”
Regarding the incident, a spokesperson from ITV 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 star 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.”
You can tune into ITV News at Ten every day at 10pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
