ITV News at Ten slammed by ‘appalled’ viewers after presenter Rageh Omaar falls ill live on air
ITV’s News At Ten has been slammed by ‘appalled’ viewers after presenter Rageh Omaar fell ill during a live broadcast.
The 56 year-old presenter was fronting the flagship bulletin last night when he sparked concern by appearing shaky on screen and struggling to get his words out.
He completed the broadcast, but a repeat of the programme was pulled from ITV’s +1 channel, and a spokesperson revealed he was being treated by medics.
But some viewers were furious with ITV, as well as its news production arm ITN, for not replacing Regeh on the show when it was clear he was not well.
One even accused producers of failing their ‘duty of care’.
Taking to X, formerly twitter, the viewer raged: “Hope you’re OK @ragehomaar. I was appalled to see that@itvnews let you continue the broadcast.
“I’d have pulled you off at the first VT. Raises questions about duty of care.”
Another seconded this, posting: “Just seen the video on TikTok of last night’s ITV News. I hope Rageh Omaar makes a full recovery. I’m genuinely surprised that nobody pulled him off air. Yes, it was a live broadcast but clearly he required attention.”
A third viewer, who was a nurse, tweeted ITV News telling them she called them and urged him to be taken off air.
Meanwhile a fourth ranted: “The first few minutes are actually worse than the other clips that have been circulating. Why the hell didnt ITV intervene and get him medical assistance is beyond me.”
The Sun has contacted ITV and ITN for comment as to why Rageh was allowed to continue with the broadcast.
Last night, a spokesperson gave an update on his health, saying: “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.”
After ITV decided not to re-air the bulletin on its +1 channel, a message showed up on screen for viewers saying: “We’ll be back soon. We’re temporarily unable to bring you our +1 service.
“We will resume shortly.”
