ITV News presenter Rageh Omaar is "receiving medical care" after he became "unwell" live on-air, ITV has confirmed.
Viewers watching the News At 10 on Friday night were concerned when the the 56-year-old host became disoriented and appeared to slur his words while reading an autocue towards the end of the bulletin. Omaar, the ITV News International Affairs Editor, was seen struggling to clear his desk and re-cap a pen following the final news story of the night and as the end credits began to roll – sparking concern online.
Now it has been confirmed that the star did suffer an undisclosed sickness - but is now recovering at home after receiving medical care. A spokesperson for the news program has confirmed that Omaar was taken to hospital where he received treatment and is now back home where he is being supported by his family.
An ITV News spokesperson told The Mirror on Saturday: "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.”
A further 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."
While Omaar himself has released a statement to reassure fans he is recovering and that he is grateful for their support. 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."
The TV star also explained why he was not removed from the news desk when he began to struggle with words - as viewers were stunned to see him battle through one statement and then return to screens after footage from a pre-recorded report were aired. He said: "At the time, I was determined to finish presenting the programme. I am grateful for all the support I've been given."
It is not clear what happened to 56-year-old Omaar during the broadcast. However, ITV pulled the show from its scheduled re-runs on ITV+1, with a message instead telling viewers that ITV were "temporarily unable to bring you our +1 service." The message added: "We will resume shortly."
Omaar is responsible for covering major news stories across the world as the International Affairs Editor, while also presenting ITV's current affairs programme On Assignment. During his career, he was also a senior foreign correspondent for the BBC, rising to prominence during the invasion of Iraq in 2003. He has worked with the ITV news teams since 2013 when he joined the network as a special correspondent and going on to become a regular News at Ten host. He also presents the ITV Lunchtime News, including the ITV News London Lunchtime Bulletin, and the ITV Evening News.
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