NBC4 Washington acknowledged Monday that veteran anchor Leon Harris “showed off” when he faced a news segment last week — while announcing he was “stepping down” for health reasons.
The acclaimed broadcaster raised eyebrows on Thanksgiving Day when he stumbled over his words and awkwardly hesitated at times while delivering local news.
Shortly after the hard-to-watch performance, NBC4 meteorologist Ryan Miller claimed the 63-year-old Harris, who used to work for CNN, was “fine” — in response to the network receiving calls from concerned fans.
On Monday, the network changed its tune when updating viewers.
“Last week, Leon [Harris] appeared ill while anchoring News4 at 6. Leon will be stepping down from the anchor desk to focus on health issues,” NBC4 said in a statement.
“We here at NBC4 — and you at home — care deeply for Leo and wish him well. Thank you for your concern.”
It’s unclear what Harris’ health issues are or if and when he might return. A representative for NBC declined further comment Monday night.
An outpouring of support quickly poured in for the anchor on social media from viewers hoping he would make a comeback soon.
“Sending nothing but love, thoughts and prayers to Mr. Harris,” podcaster Lee Sanders posted. “Whatever happens, kick her ass and come back stronger than before bro!”
“Quite a mysterious announcement here, but I wish Harris well,” tweeted retired Washington Post editor Robert McCartney.
Harris, who has been with the local affiliate since 2017, previously spoke about his struggle with alcohol in March 2022 after he was sentenced to 10 days in jail for crashing into another car while driving under the influence.
He was withdrawn from the air, as a result of his legal problems, for a period of time.
“I know I let so many people down,” said Harris, who blamed “alcohol and that disease” for his poor judgment.
The broadcaster said he was doing “three hours of therapy” every morning during his time off to deal with his substance use.
“To all the people I’ve let down and let me down, first I say, ‘I can’t tell you how sorry I am,'” he said. “But I will try to show you that I deserve a shot at earning your trust and respect again.”
Earlier this fall, Harris underwent surgery after suffering a serious foot injury that also sidelined him.
“I wish I had a really, really good story, I wish it involved me saving a kid from a burning building or something, but unfortunately, it’s not,” he said in a video distributed by the station.
“Your friend here did something very stupid. My advice to you is whatever you do, don’t run up and down the stairs in your socks.”
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