Reading Rainbow host Mychal Threets has sparked alarm among followers with a cryptic social media post stating that he is “not okay” and was going to check himself into a hospital because of his mental well-being.
The star, who is also known to PBS Kids fans as Mychal the Librarian, shared a message on Threads.
“I am not okay. Maybe I’ll never be okay. I’m seeking help. Going to the hopital tomorrow. In this moment I am safe. By God’s grace,” Threets wrote on August 17.
“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.”
The host did not elaborate anymore, and hasn’t posted since then. However, he was just posting on his Instagram page a few days prior with a smile on his face.
Fans wished him well and told him to get help if he felt that he needed it.“If you need the help, maybe go tonight, friend,” actress Yvette Nicole Brown suggested.
“Mychal, please get the help that you need because this world is a better place because you’re in it,” another commented.
“We will be waiting in the library for you to return from your battle,” a fan wrote.
“I’ll never understand why someone who radiates love and kindness can’t feel it for himself. Depression and anxiety SUCK, and they are liars,” a fourth added.
Reading Rainbow was revived in September 2025 after a 20-year hiatus. The original series was hosted by LeVar Burton and ran for 21 seasons.
The PBS series had each episode based on a children’s book, as well as children recommending books to find at the local library. The new series follows a similar format, but airs exclusively on YouTube. It was renewed for another season in February after reaching 4.8 million views.
It is not clear if Threets going to the hospital will affect whether he hosts the show in the future. He has frequently used his platform to advocate for mental health awareness, neurodiversity, and disability rights.
If you or someone you know needs help with mental health, contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264). If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.