Mychal Threets, the current host of the Reading Rainbow reboot, announced on Monday that he is seeking professional medical treatment for his mental health. Threets shared the news on his social media account, telling his followers he is not okay and needs help.
Threets gained widespread recognition in 2023 for his positive messages as a librarian, which led to his role hosting the new iteration of Reading Rainbow in 2025. This move comes after he previously stepped down from his librarian position in 2024 due to burnout and personal struggles that impacted his well-being. He expressed gratitude for the people in his life who provide support during difficult times.
Fans and public figures have responded with messages of support and encouragement. Yvette Nicole Brown, an actress known for her role in Community, offered her support in the comments of his post. Many others emphasized how much his work matters and encouraged him to focus on his recovery.
Threets remains a notable voice in literacy and media. His public decision to prioritize his mental health highlights the ongoing challenges of burnout in creative and public-facing roles. Resources for those experiencing similar distress, including the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, are available for anyone in need of support.