NBC4 Washington Anchor Leon Harris On Medical Leave Following Viewer Concern Over Viral Broadcast Where He “Appeared Unwell”

deadline.com:

Emmy-winning television anchor Leon Harris is taking a medical leave of absence following a viral broadcast over Thanksgiving weekend in which he “appeared unwell” and spiked viewer concern, NBC4 Washington announced today. “We have an update to share with you about our colleague, Leon Harris,” the statement began. “Last week, Leon appeared unwell while anchoring News4 at 6.

Leon will be stepping away from the anchor desk to focus on health issues.” News reports and viral social media posts began Nov.

28 following the 6 p.m. broadcast, during which Harris appeared to slur his words, struggle with pronunciation and miss the ends of sentences.

Many online remarked that the telecast was difficult to watch given Harris’ clear confusion and solid reputation as a veteran reporter. “We’ve heard a lot from some of you through phone and email during this newscast,” weatherman Ryan Miller said at the time, after Harris was taken off-air minutes after commencing the report. “We want to assure you that our colleague, Leon Harris, is fine.