A prominent American television host has fainted live on air, returning just minutes later to host the remainder of her programme.

Fifty-three-year-old Wendy Williams fell to the ground during a live broadcast of her morning show, in a segment dedicated to her annual Halloween costume contest.

Dressed in a Statue of Liberty costume, Ms Williams attempted to announce the first contestant but struggled to find the words. She then stumbled backwards, widening her eyes and raising her hand to her head. After several seconds, she fell to the floor.

Video posted by TMZ shows several assistants rushing to her side.

Producers quickly cut to black, then transitioned to a commercial break. When the show returned minutes later, Ms Williams had returned to her usual position.

“That was not a stunt. I'm overheated in my costume and I did pass out,” she told the audience, before finishing her hour-long talk show.

The host later released a statement on Twitter, saying she felt “much better”.

“[Ms Williams] overheated because of her heavy costume, makeup, and lights,” the statement said. “She was able to finish the show in true Wendy spirit."

On Twitter, fans’ reactions turned from shock and concern to admiration.

“Wendy Williams overheated in her costume and fainted on her show, but came right back like a champ!” wrote one.

“This Is Why Wendy Williams Is The Queen Of This TV Hosting Thing,” added another.

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Spokesperson Ronn Torossian told USA TODAY that the host had been examined by medical professionals and was “on her way home for a good day and night of sleep” on Tuesday. He added that she would continue her shows as planned, and intended to address the incident in the next day’s episode.

“She has never missed a day of work and is looking forward on Nov. 13 to her 1500th show,” he said.