Britain's Got Talent has faced the wrath of fans after an "insensitive" news spoof segment kicked the show off today.
Last night, as he was reading the news, news anchor Rageh Omaar fell ill and medics stepped in to give him treatment after he completed ITV’s News at Ten show. When the programme aired, fans rushed to express their concern - as one branded it 'disturbing'.
As he fronted the programme, Omaar was seen shaking and having difficulty getting his words out. In a poorly timed segment to start the show, an ITV News logo flashed up on screen and anchor Charlene White appeared to read out some breaking news.
She then passed it over to a press conference where the four judges - Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden, Alesha Dixon and Bruno Tonioli - appeared for a spoof press conference, where they were interviewed by children.
However, given what happened with Rageh Omaar last night, fans were left concerned by the sudden pop up of the ITV News logo and took to Twitter to fume when it was revealed what it was about.
One fan wrote: "I wish they wouldn’t keep doing that fake Breaking News bit on #BritainsGotTalent especially with the stuff that happened with Rageh Omaar yesterday #bgt," whilst a second added: "A bit distasteful to start #BGT with a itv news after last night." Another was left concerned for the royals, as they penned: "The way I thought a royal just died."
Rageh was hosting the news yesterday evening when he began to shake and struggled to get his words out. ITV have since issued a statement after fans grew concerned for the news anchor, who is now resting at home.
In a statement released today, an ITV News spokesperson told The Mirror : "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."
Rageh also issued a statement through the broadcaster, and 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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