Rageh Omaar's on‑air stroke sparks outcry over ITV's response

British television presenter Rageh Omaar experienced sudden difficulty reading during a Thursday news broadcast, alarming viewers. It was later revealed that Omaar had suffered a stroke, yet the network chose not to interrupt the program.

According to the "Daily Mail," a viewer who works as an ICU nurse noticed Omaar's condition just ten minutes into the broadcast. Convinced that he was exhibiting stroke symptoms, such as aphasia, a drooping left eye, and slurred speech, she promptly contacted the network to express her concerns.

She shared on the social media platform X that having witnessed such conditions in her profession, she was shocked by the apparent disregard for urgent medical intervention. When she alerted the team to the presenter's distress, they responded that they were already aware. This revelation sparked widespread indignation online, with many criticizing the failure to assist Omaar immediately.

Omaar managed to complete the broadcast, which was followed by a 20-second clip of him on screen, accompanied by subtitles.

ITV acknowledged that Omaar felt unwell, but refrained from divulging further details.

In a statement from ITV News, 56-year-old Rageh Omaar expressed his gratitude towards those who showed concern. "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"— the statement read.

"At the time, I was determined to finish presenting the programme. I am grateful for all the support I’ve been given," he further stated.