The Late Late Show has been a beloved staple of Irish television since its inception over five decades ago. Hosted by the legendary Gay Byrne for over 35 years, the show has welcomed some of the biggest names in music, entertainment, and politics. Since Byrne’s retirement in 1999, a number of high-profile presenters have taken charge of the show, from Pat Kenny to Ryan Tubridy. With the latest series coming to an end and rumors rife about who will take over hosting duties, some of RTE’s top stars are said to be in turmoil. The decision on the next Late Late host is eagerly awaited by audiences and industry insiders alike, with many wondering if the broadcaster will stick with a familiar face, or opt for a fresh and exciting new presenter. In this article, we take a closer look at the top RTE stars in turmoil as bosses make this crucial decision.
The Late Late Show is a staple of Irish television, and the recent announcement of Ryan Tubridy’s departure at the end of the current season has sparked great interest in who will take over as the new host. According to recent reports, several big names at RTE are vying for the coveted position, including Claire Byrne, Brendan O’Connor, Miriam O’Callaghan, and Sarah McInerney.
An insider at RTE told The Irish Sun on Sunday that “the suspense for them will be awful. Their careers will be on hold. They will be on the phone all weekend to their agents, who in turn, will be trying to sound out RTE management to see if they are in with a chance of getting Ryan Tubridy’s job.”
While Claire Byrne appears to be the frontrunner for the Late Late Show host position, long-time station watchers say anything can happen. The insider went on to say, “Claire would seem the obvious and safest choice, but with ratings for the Late Late declining, maybe RTE thinks they need to take a risk? Sarah McInerney did a great job hosting the St Patrick’s Day coverage last Friday, which makes her another serious contender.”
Despite pressure on RTE to hire a woman as the new host, a man cannot be ruled out. Brendan O’Connor, a “charming, intelligent man” who “can do light and shade,” is also being considered for the position. Jim Jennings, RTE’s Head of Content, will have a massive say in picking the next host of the Late Late Show, but RTE’s new Group Head of Entertainment and Music, Alan Tyler, will also be involved in the decision-making process.
When it comes to Miriam O’Callaghan, who is also being tipped for the Late Late job, questions have been raised about her age and whether she could commit to the next fourteen years of Friday nights like Ryan Tubridy did. However, the mother-of-eight attracted massive ratings for the Late Late Show when she stood in for a sick Tubridy during Covid, and it is possible that she could do the Late Late for three years and then pass it onto a younger female host like Angela Scanlon or Sarah McIneney, who RTE might not think is ready yet.
One thing that is clear is that it is imperative that RTE doesn’t string this out for too long. As an insider added, “RTE owes it to them not to string this out.”
The Late Late Show has been a fixture of Irish television since its first broadcast in 1962, and it has become an institution in the country’s popular culture. The show has featured interviews with politicians, celebrities, and regular people, as well as musical performances and comedy skits.
The Late Late Show has also been a platform for discussion on social and political issues, with hosts such as Gay Byrne and Ryan Tubridy regularly addressing topics like marriage equality, abortion, and mental health. The show has also played a significant role in promoting Irish music, with performances from artists such as U2, Sinead O’Connor, and Enya.
Whoever takes the helm as the new host of the Late Late Show will carry on this important legacy, and the decision of who that will be is one that is being watched closely by everyone in Ireland. As the Late Late Show continues to hold a special place in Irish hearts, it’s vital that the new host reflects the values, opinions, and interests of the country and its people.
In conclusion, while the competition for the Late Late Show host position is fierce, there can only be one chosen to take over from Ryan Tubridy. The decision-making process will likely be long and arduous, as RTE’s biggest stars compete for the coveted position. Ultimately, however, the show must go on, and whoever takes up the mantle must carry on the Late Late Show’s tradition of shining a spotlight on the most important issues facing Ireland today.
In conclusion, the stakes are high for RTE as they choose their next Late Late Show host. With current stars in turmoil and rumors swirling around potential replacements, it is a pivotal moment for Ireland’s most iconic talk show. As the decision looms, we can only hope that the chosen host will do justice to the legacy of the Late Late Show while bringing a fresh perspective to the table. Until then, we eagerly anticipate the reveal and brace ourselves for the next chapter of one of RTE’s biggest dramas.
