Rageh Omaar’s fellow ITV newsreader Charlene White has issued a strongly-worded plea to social media users following her colleague’s appearance on Friday’s News at 10.
Omaar sparked concern on Friday night after many feared he looked unwell, with the experienced broadcaster stumbling over his words while trying to read aloud the latest bulletins.
Clips of Friday’s episode of the ITV News at 10 soon went viral online and Omaar released a statement on Saturday to reassure concerned fans he was okay.
He said: “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.
“At the time, I was determined to finish presenting the programme. I am grateful for all the support I’ve been given.”
While Omaar has done his best to allay fears, ITV News colleague White appeared less than impressed with how viewers showed their concern.
ITV News presenter Rageh Omaar fell “unwell” during the channel’s News at 10 programme and “received medical care”
ITV
After seeing videos of Omaar circulate on the likes of X and Instagram, White took to the latter to write: “How about everyone stops posting and re-posting a video of a man becoming unwell live on TV.
“Who does that benefit?” she fumed. “Sometimes real life isn’t just about upping your engagement figures, and upping your likes.”
Among those in agreement was White’s Loose Women co-star Denise Welch who was similarly dismayed in the comments.
She penned in response to White’s words: “My thoughts exactly Charlene. Honestly this world,” followed by a series of angry emojis.
Broadcaster Jeanette Kwakye also weighed in: “Praying that he’s ok. To even watch the video is one thing. Let alone share it.”
However, others were quick to criticise White for drawing more attention to the very incident she was pleading for fans to stop speculating on.
One of her followers commented: “I think it was general concern Charlene, however you are right and I do agree the last thing the poor man wants as well becoming unwell on love tv is it being passed around. I do hope he is okay and feels better soon.”
A second queried: “Surely this creates more intrigue? Didn’t know anything about this until it was advertised.”
And a third echoed: “Charlene you’ve just given what happened more attention by posting about it.” (sic)
An ITV News spokesperson has also addressed the reception to Omaar’s Friday night appearance, saying in a statement on Saturday: “We appreciate viewers of last night’s News at 10 were concerned about Rageh Omaar’s wellbeing.
Charlene White has furiously hit out at the reaction to Rageh Omaar falling ill on-air
ITV
“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.”
Details of Omaar’s illness haven’t been revealed.
