‘NOT OK’

‘Reading Rainbow’ Star, 36, in Hospital After Worrying Post

Mychal Threets has hosted the show since 2025.

The host of the children’s TV program Reading Rainbow has issued an alarming message saying he is “not OK.” Mychal Threets, who has spoken out against President Donald Trump’s ICE raids, announced he planned to check himself into the hospital in a worrying post on Threads on Monday. “I am not OK. Maybe I’ll never be OK,” the 36-year-old, known on the show as Mychal the Librarian, said. “I’m seeking help. Going to the hospital tomorrow. In this moment I am safe. By God’s grace.” A librarian and mental health advocate who has hosted the show since 2025, he added, “No matter what happens to me, I will always be thankful for the extraordinary people in my life who worry, who help me. Thank you for your care. I will always love you.” In the comments, actor Yvette Nicole Brown replied: “If you need the help, maybe go tonight, friend.” “Know that staying is an incredible gift to all of us—we are so grateful and proud of you for saying these thoughts out loud so we can send you our energy and love,” wrote entrepreneur Nicole Waters. “See you tomorrow friend.” Reading Rainbow first aired on PBS in 1983 and became a popular show seeking to foster in children a love for reading.