ITV News presenter 'receiving medical care' after becoming 'unwell' live on air
ITV News presenter Rageh Omaar is receiving medical care after he became unwell live on-air, the TV channel says.
The ITV News International Affairs Editor, 56, a veteran in the news industry, was delivering the 10pm news programme on Friday when he began stumbling over his words.
Eagle-eyed viewers even noticed that he appeared to be struggling to read the news bulletins – sparking concern online.
ITV then pulled the show from its scheduled re-run on ITV+1, telling viewers that the channel was "temporarily unable to bring you our +1 service".
Although it is still unclear what exactly happened, ITV News have confirmed that Rageh is 'now receiving medical care' and he is grateful for all the 'well wishes'.
Afterwards, an ITV News spokesperson said: "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."
ITV+1 also pulled the programme from its re-runs, as a message on screen read: "We'll be back soon. We're temporarily unable to bring you our +1 service. We will resume shortly."
It was just minutes into the show when viewers watching at home first noticed how the anchor appeared shaky on screen when discussing a segment on weekend life. It prompted worry amongst fans.
Viewers were quick to raise their concerns on social media with one user saying: "I actually can't believe ITV let Rageh Omaar do the whole 30 minute show. If he's ill they have a duty of care to him, if he was under the influence they have a responsibility to the viewers. Seriously hope he is OK because that was tough to watch."
Another viewer expressed concern for Rageh, writing: "What happened to him, is he ok & why didn’t they take him off air?"
One viewer wrote: "Hoping Rageh Omaar got the care he quite clearly needed after the ITV news tonight. Not entirely sure of the context and why he had to continue broadcasting, but I’m sure there will be an explanation in time."
While another said: "I thought he was just having problems with the auto cue but I hope he's feeling better."
Omaar covers major news stories as ITV's international affairs editor, while also presenting the channel's current affairs programme On Assignment.
During his career, he has also been a senior foreign correspondent for the BBC, rising to prominence during the invasion of Iraq in 2003.
