ITV News Presenter Rageh Omaar Receives Medical Care After On-Air Struggle

ITV News presenter Rageh Omaar sparked concern among viewers on Friday night when he appeared to struggle while reading the news bulletins during the News At Ten programme. Following the broadcast, ITV announced that Omaar had become “unwell” live on-air and was receiving medical care.

The 56-year-old presenter, known for his role as the international affairs editor, expressed his determination to finish presenting the programme despite his health issues. He later thanked his colleagues, viewers, and medical staff for their support.

In a statement to the PA news agency, an ITV News spokesperson reassured viewers that Omaar is now recovering at home with his family after receiving medical treatment at the hospital. The broadcaster wished him a speedy recovery and looks forward to his return to the screen when he feels ready.

Omaar, in a statement shared by ITV, expressed gratitude for the kindness and good wishes he received from everyone, especially the medical staff, colleagues at ITV News, and concerned viewers. He emphasized his determination to finish presenting the programme despite his health challenges.

Colleagues and fellow journalists took to social media to send their well wishes to Omaar, with ITV News royal editor Chris Ship praising the paramedics from the London Ambulance Service for their amazing support. Other newsreaders and journalists from various networks also expressed their support and wished Omaar a speedy recovery.

As the international affairs editor for ITV News, Omaar is responsible for covering major news stories around the world and also presents the current affairs programme On Assignment. With a distinguished career that includes serving as a senior foreign correspondent for the BBC, Omaar has covered significant events such as the invasion of Iraq in 2003.

The News At Ten programme was temporarily pulled from its scheduled re-runs on ITV+1, with a message informing viewers of the temporary interruption in service. Despite the health scare, Omaar’s determination and the outpouring of support from colleagues and viewers highlight the resilience and camaraderie within the news industry.