ITV News presenter Rageh Omaar victim of fake social media account after on-air health crisis
Newsreader Rageh Omaar has fallen prey to a distasteful social media prank following his recent health scare.
After the ITV News At Ten anchor experienced a suspected mini-stroke during a live broadcast on Friday night, an unconfirmed Instagram account has surfaced, using his image and name.
The Instagram account, which began posting on Monday, has posted multiple statements claiming to be the 56-year-old – and even shared a pregnancy announcement to its 14 followers.
“Here’s some joyful news about me,” the account captioned an image of a baby scan. “Despite the surprise, I’m pleased to share that my wife and I are expecting our fourth child.
“We’re eagerly awaiting your arrival. This is the silver lining amidst everything. It gives me motivation to recover.”
Omaar is yet to post on his verified X, formerly Twitter, account following his on-air health crisis and doesn’t appear to have an official, verified public Instagram account.
A fake account pretending to be the journalist claimed that he was expecting a child (Instagram)
The Standard has contacted Rageh Omaar’s reps for comment.
The social media account comes after a spokesperson for the broadcaster said Omaar is “recovering at home with his family” after being treated in hospital.
Omaar, the ITV News international affairs editor, was presenting the News At Ten programme on Friday when he appeared to struggle to read the news bulletins – sparking concern online.
The news presenter has thanked everyone for their “kindness and good wishes” – making particular note to the medical staff, his ITV News colleagues and concerned viewers.
An ITV News spokesperson said in a statement: “We appreciate viewers of last night’s News at Ten were concerned about Rageh Omaar’s wellbeing.
“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.”
Omaar added in a statement: “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.”
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