NBC broadcaster Mike Tirico has opened up on his brutal Kentucky Derby live television exit.
Tirico’s anchoring duties were cut abruptly short due to a deadly explanation.
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Tirico couldn’t finish his hosting duties on NBC’s Kentucky Derby coverage on Saturday.
Less than an hour into the event, Tirico was replaced by Ahmed Fareed, who said the veteran was feeling “under the weather” when informing TV viewers that he would take over the role for the time being.
Fareed then shared an update hours later that Tirico had a reaction to his nut allergy and that he wouldn’t return.
On Monday, Tirico appeared on the Today show and said he now feels “fine” but he spoke about what caused his allergic reaction.
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“I ate something that had a nut in it and had a nut allergy, causing your throat and your nose all that stuff to kind of clog up and swell,” Tirico said.
“It affects your breathing a little bit, so [I] wasn’t feeling well, couldn’t go on with the show, took an EpiPen shot, got treated by EMTs, felt better about 8, 9 o’clock came along, but it takes a long while to get out of your system.”
Tirico also shared that he’s usually more careful about what he eats and is “embarrassed” by the attention his lifelong allergic reaction has gotten.
“It’s a real thing. My son has it. Lots of us know someone who has a food allergy, so read labels – and I do, as often as possible to check,” he said.
Tirico did joke about the situation and explained his absence to fans on X on Saturday.
“[Hate being a scratch after making the starting gate @KentuckyDerby,” he said.
“Just a significant reaction to my nut allergy. If you have one you know how it can knock you down.
“Profound thanks to @ChurchillDowns for their care. And to our amazing @nbcsports horse racing family.”
Tirico didn’t return for the 151st edition of the Kentucky Derby, which was won by Sovereignty.
Fans did notice Tirico’s voice during the beginning of Saturday’s coverage of the big race.
“Definitely could tell he was sick. Sounded horrible,” one wrote.
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“I thought he sounded different, but figured it was his microphone,” another commented.
“Tiricio did sound bad,” a third added.
Tirico is the leading voice for NBC Sports and is the current Sunday Night Football play-by-play announcer.
The 58-year-old has been the lead-in studio host for the Olympic Games since 2016.
Tirico also hosts all three events in horse racing’s Triple Crown.