Ryan Seacrest denies suffering a stroke during American Idol finale after ‘worrying’ incident

Viewers worried after Seacrest appeared to struggle to speak and one of his eyes seemed to shut

Ryan Seacrest did not suffer a stroke on American Idol, according to his representative, who spoke out after a clip from the show left viewers worried about the host’s health.

The talent show’s 18th season wrapped up on Sunday during a remote finale, which Seacrest hosted from home due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Near the end of the broadcast, Seacrest, a seasoned on-air personality, seemed to struggle with his speech, while his right eye appeared to shut.

Several viewers shared messages on social media worrying that Seacrest had suffered a stroke during the programme.

Seacrest’s representative told People on Monday that that is not the case, and that Seacrest has in fact been feeling the effects of stress.

“Ryan did not have any kind of stroke last night,” the representative told the magazine.

“Like many people right now, Ryan is adjusting to the new normal and finding work-home balance, with the added stress of having to put on live shows from home.”

Seacrest did not appear on Live With Kelly and Ryan, which he has been co-hosting with Kelly Ripa remotely, on Monday morning.

He’s due back on the programme later this week.