Rageh Omaar: ITV newsreader 'receiving medical care' after on-screen behaviour worries fans

The 56-year-old appeared to be struggling to read his news bulletin on Friday, stumbling over words and prompting concern online.

Saturday 27 April 2024 15:58, UK

Rageh Omaar presenting Friday's ITV News at Ten
Image: Rageh Omaar presenting Friday's ITV News at Ten
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ITV News presenter Rageh Omaar is "receiving medical care" after becoming "unwell" live on-air, the TV channel says.

Omaar, 56, was presenting News At Ten on Friday when he appeared to be struggling to read the news bulletins, stumbling over words, prompting concern online.

ITV 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".

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.

Rageh Omaar attending the ITV Palooza held at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London. Picture date: Tuesday November 23, 2021.
Image: Rageh Omaar in 2021. File pic: PA
In 2003 Rageh Omaar reported from Baghdad for the BBC
Image: In 2003 Rageh Omaar reported from Baghdad for the BBC

"He thanks everyone for their well wishes."

No further details were given and it is unclear what was happening to Omaar during the broadcast.

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Omaar covers major news stories as ITV's international affairs editor, while also presenting the channel's current affairs programme On Assignment.

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He was previously a senior foreign correspondent for the BBC, rising to prominence during the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

Sky News has chosen not to use the footage