Loose Women star Charlene White issues plea after ITV News' Rageh Omaar falls ill live on air
Loose Women stars Charlene White and Denise Welch have vented their anger over the sharing of a clip of ITV newsreader Rageh Omaar falling ill live on TV.
The 56-year-old presenter started to noticeably struggle with his words during a report towards the end of the news programme on Friday, 26 April, and straight after the show, Rageh was rushed to hospital where he immediately received treatment.
It remains unconfirmed as to the nature of his illness but he has since thanked fans for their "kindness and good wishes” as he recovers at home.
Charlene has now taken umbrage at the number of people who have been sharing the video of Rageh falling ill and took to social media to complain.
The Loose Women star hit out, writing on Instagram and X, formerly known as Twitter: "How about everyone stops posting and re-posting a video of a man becoming unwell live on TV. Who does that benefit? Sometimes real life isn't just about upping your engagement figures, and upping your likes".
Her feelings were echoed by her fellow Loose Women panellist, Denise Welch, who commented on Charlene's post, writing: "My thoughts exactly Charlene. Honestly this world [angry face emojis]."
A ITV News source told Mail on Sunday that the producers were trying to replace Rageh but he wanted to complete delivering the news: "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."
Rageh was discharged the following day and is spending time at home recovering with his family.
Following on from the scary ordeal, Rageh has since broken his silence as he thanked fans and colleagues for their concern and swift actions to secure medical treatment.
In a statement shared by ITV he said: “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."
He added: "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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