ITV announcer Rageh Omaar, who sparked concern after falling ill live on air, reportedly 'refused to move' despite a replacement being brought onto the broadcast.
On Friday night, people watching the broadcaster's News at Ten program expressed their concern on social media after the 56-year-old appeared to stumble over his words while reading the autocue.
An ITV News spokesperson later confirmed that Omaar received medical treatment in hospital after falling ill during the broadcast, adding that he has since returned home to recover with his family.
In his own statement, the veteran journalist said he was “determined to finish presenting the program”.
After ITV received some criticism from viewers who were confused as to why Omaar continued to read the news despite something appearing to be wrong, it has now been claimed that he has refused to leave his role.
An ITV News source said The Sunday Mail: 'The show's team were trying to replace him when they realized there was a problem.
“They sent the backup presenter to the set to take over, but he insisted on staying on air. Nobody could get him out of the chair. He refused to move.
“Even when he was told he needed to go and that the team had asked 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 a horrible, horrible night.
In his statement, Omaar thanked everyone he contacted for their “kindness and good wishes.”
He also gave a special thanks to the medical team and his “wonderful colleagues at ITV News”.
Omaar is ITV's International Affairs Editor, covering major news from around the world in his role.
He also presents the broadcaster's current affairs program on Assignment and is deputy newsreader for ITV News at Ten.
He joined ITV News in 2013 after working as a senior foreign correspondent at the BBC.
After Omaar received medical treatment, an ITV News spokesperson said: 'We appreciate that viewers of last night's News at Ten were concerned about Rageh Omaar's welfare.
'Following medical treatment in hospital, he is now recovering at home with his family.
“We wish Rageh a speedy recovery and hope he returns to the screen when he feels ready.”
Metro.co.uk has contacted representatives for ITV and Rageh for comment.
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