Conservative leadership debate on TALKRADIO goes off air as host Kate McCann faints

Earlier this evening, the Conservative leadership debate between Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak on TALKRADIO and TALKTV came to an abrupt end as host Kate McCann fainted during the programme.

Listeners were shocked to hear a loud crash and then the station went off air. There was no immediate explanation to radio listeners as to what had happened.

TalkTV viewers and to those watching online via The Sun’s website saw Liz Truss being surprised by the crash while she was talking, before the programme switched to a graphic apologising for the break in transmission.

Some listeners and viewers posted social media to express concern – likening the noise to ‘a gunshot’ and saying not knowing what happened was ‘really worrying’.

What on earth happened then? Hope everyone is ok! #TalkTV #TheSun pic.twitter.com/M9RvqVyCr3

— Harry Rutter (@harryjohnrutter) July 26, 2022

After a few minutes, presenter Ian Collins took over the broadcast from the TalkRadio studio, confirming ‘there been a medical issue, it’s not a security issue’ and that the candidates are okay, with a News UK spokeswoman saying if it was possible to resume the debate, they would.

Later, a statement was issued explaining what happened: “Kate McCann fainted on air tonight and although she is fine, the medical advice was that we shouldn’t continue with the debate. We apologise to our viewers and listeners.”

Both Liz Truss and Rushi Sunak later tweeted their best wishes to Kate.

Relieved to hear @KateEMcCann is fine. Really sorry that such a good debate had to end. Look forward to catching up with Kate and the rest of the @TheSun @TalkTV team again soon. https://t.co/pvcl12G73X

— Liz for Leader (@trussliz) July 26, 2022

Good news that you're already recovering @KateEMcCann.

It was a great debate and I look forward to getting grilled by you again shortly! https://t.co/ptogMJ3pt5

— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) July 26, 2022