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The moment a British news presenter appeared to suffer a “mini-stroke” during a live TV bulletin has sparked an outpouring of concern.
Rageh Omaar, 56, was presenting ITV’s News at Ten on Friday when he began to have trouble with his speech.
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The esteemed international affairs editor appeared to have difficulty reading the bulletin, stumbling over his words and appearing slightly shaky.
Some viewers feared Omaar was in the midst of a mini-stroke.
When footage of the incident began circulating online, viewers were outraged by claims that the TV station kept Omaar on air for another 28 minutes.
However, Omaar has since released a statement saying that he had been determined to finish the bulletin.
After receiving medical treatment, Omaar released a statement to clarify what had happened, without specifying the exact nature of his illness.
“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 said.
“At the time, I was determined to finish presenting the programme.
“I am grateful for all the support I’ve been given.”
ITV also released a statement addressing claims the network had forced Omaar to stay on-air.
“We appreciate viewers of last night’s News at Ten were concerned about Rageh Omaar’s wellbeing,” the statement read.
“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.”
No further details on the journalist’s condition were given.
Social media lit up with concerned comments as viewers watched the veteran reporter struggling to speak.
“OK, Rageh Omaar is definitely struggling … He’s stuttering … Hope he’s OK, seriously,” one viewer wrote.
“Wishing the wonderful Rageh Omaar a speedy recovery,” wrote another.
“Why is Rageh Omaar struggling on ITV News?” another asked.
“I thought he was having a panic attack.
“I hope he’s OK.”
One viewer said it was “astounding” that he managed to finish the bulletin.
Speaking to The Mail on Sunday, an ITV source said Rageh “refused to move” when producers offered to replace him.
“They sent the standby presenter to the set to take over, but he insisted on remaining on air,” the source said.
“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.”