NBC4 Washington acknowledged Monday that veteran anchor Leon Harris “looked sick” during a difficult news segment last week, but announced he was “stepping down” due to health reasons.
The famous broadcaster stumbled over his words, hesitating awkwardly and frowning at times while delivering local news on Thanksgiving.
Immediately after that, A performance that is difficult to watch, NBC4 meteorologist Ryan Miller insisted Harris, 63, who worked for CNN, was “fine” after receiving calls from concerned fans.
On Monday, the network changed its tune when updating its audience.
“Last week, Leon-san. [Harris] “Leon had been anchoring News 4 since 6 p.m., but he was not feeling well. Leon will be stepping away from the anchor desk to focus on his health issues,” NBC4 said. statement.
“We at NBC4 and everyone at the home care deeply for Leon and wish him well. Thank you for your concern.”
It's unclear what Harris' health issues are or if or when he will be able to return. An NBC representative declined further comment Monday night.
There was an immediate outpouring of support on social media from viewers who hoped the anchor would bounce back soon.
Podcaster Lee Sanders: “I send nothing but love, thoughts and prayers to Harris.'' Posted. “No matter what happens, kick its ass and come back stronger than before, brother!”
“This is a rather puzzling announcement, but I wish Harris the best,” said former Washington Post editor-in-chief Robert McCartney. he tweeted.
Mr. Harris has been working at the local subsidiary since 2017 and was previously talked about him Struggling with alcohol after being sentenced to 10 days in jail in March 2022 If you crash into another car while driving drunk.
He stepped down for a period of time as a result of legal troubles.
“I know I let so many people down,” Harris said, blaming “alcohol and its disease” for her poor decisions.
The broadcaster said he was doing “three hours of therapy” every morning during the holidays to deal with his drug use.
“To all the people I've let down and everyone I've let down, I'd like to start by saying: 'Words can't express how sorry I am,'” he said. “But I want to show again that I deserve a chance to earn your trust and respect.”
Earlier this fall, Harris suffered a serious leg injury that sidelined him and then underwent surgery.
“I wish there had been a really, really good story. I wish it had been about rescuing a baby from a burning building or something. Unfortunately that wasn't the case,” he said in the article. Video shared by the station.
“Your friend here did something pretty stupid. My advice is, whatever you do, don't go up and down the stairs with your socks on.”
