Mychal Threets: Mental Health
Mychal Threets, "Reading Rainbow" Host, Enters Hospital for Mental Health Support
Mychal Threets, the new host of "Reading Rainbow," announced on social media that he is checking into a hospital for mental health support. "I am not okay," he told his followers, while also making clear that he was safe and actively seeking help. WSOC TV reported the news, which quickly drew an outpouring of public support.
Threets, widely known online as Mychal the Librarian, rose to fame through viral videos about his love of books and libraries. He became the host of the rebooted "Reading Rainbow" on PBS in 2025. His openness about mental health struggles has been a defining part of his public presence.
Threets Tells Fans He Is Checking In for Help
In his announcement, Threets was direct and honest with his audience. He said he was not okay but wanted fans to know he was safe. He did not share specific details about what led to the decision. His message showed the same candid style that first made him popular online, according to WSB-TV.
Actress Yvette Nicole Brown was among those who publicly responded with support. Many other followers also sent messages of encouragement. The response showed how closely people feel connected to Threets and his message about mental health, Action News Jax noted.
Threets Has Long Spoken Openly About Mental Health
This is not the first time Threets has talked openly about his mental health. He previously left a job at a library because of his mental illness. He has spoken about how hard it can be to struggle with mental health while also trying to show up for others, WPXI reported.
His honesty about those struggles is a big reason why he built such a loyal following. Fans have praised him for making it feel safe to talk about mental health. His willingness to be vulnerable has become part of who he is as a public figure, according to Boston 25 News.
From Viral Librarian to 'Reading Rainbow' Host in 2025
Threets first went viral by posting warm, enthusiastic videos about books and reading. He became known as someone who genuinely loved libraries and wanted others to feel welcome in them. PBS tapped him to host the rebooted "Reading Rainbow" when the show came back in 2025, WHIO reported.
"Reading Rainbow" originally ran from 1983 to 2006 and was hosted by LeVar Burton. The show was beloved for encouraging children to read. Threets stepping into that role was seen as a big moment, given how much he had already done to promote books and literacy online, according to WOKV.
Supporters Rally Around a Beloved Public Voice
The public reaction to Threets' announcement was swift and warm. Fans flooded social media with messages telling him to rest and get the care he needs. Many pointed to how much his openness had helped them face their own mental health challenges, WXPI reported.
Mental health advocates also praised Threets for speaking up. Checking into a hospital for mental health care is a step many people find hard to take. By sharing it publicly, Threets may help others feel less alone in their own struggles, according to Eagles San Antonio.
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