Patrick Kielty has been confirmed as the new host of the Late Late Show, replacing Ryan Tubridy.
The Irish talk show, which airs on national broadcaster RTE, is one of the longest-running chat shows in the world.
Current presenter Ryan, 49, announced he would be stepping down from the show earlier this year, launching a waiting game to see who would fill his shoes after 14 years at the helm.
Northern Ireland comedian and presenter Patrick, 52, has now been confirmed to be following in the footsteps of Ryan and previous presenters Pat Kenny and the legendary Gay Byrne, who died in 2019.
Patrick, who is from County Down, is best-known for presenting the original Love Island, as well as Fame Academy and previously co-presented on ITV’s This Morning.
The star has also tackled incredibly difficult subjects, including through BBC documentary My Dad, The Peace Deal and Me, about his father being killed by Ulster Freedom Fighters paramilitaries when he was just 16 years of age.
Speaking as he was announced to be taking over on the show’s 61st season, Patrick said it was a ‘real honour,’ adding: ‘I can’t thank RTE enough for giving me the chance to be a part of the next chapter of such an iconic show.
‘I’m also genuinely humbled to become part of Friday nights for so many Irish people, at home and around the world. I can’t wait to get started on one of the greatest jobs in television.’
Jim Jennings, RTE’s director of content, added: ‘Patrick Kielty is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s finest comedians, a fantastic presenter with a depth of experience, and a range of talents that will bring an exciting new dynamic to the show.
‘Patrick’s personality and passion is sure to connect with audiences and I look forward to it bursting on to screens in September.
‘We have very definite ideas for the show already in the works and we’ll be busy behind the scenes shaping the series for launch. We’ll be back in August to tell you all about it.’
Ryan had announced his departure in an emotional statement calling it a ‘privilege’ to have hosted the institution, which includes the beloved annual Late Late Toy Show, which raises millions for charity each year.
‘As I reflect on my time at the helm, I realise that we experienced extraordinary times as a country in that period.
‘During the pandemic, particularly, the viewing figures bear testament to the fact that many families across Ireland tuned in as we tried to make sense of it all.
‘In a time of massive disruption and fragmentation of media and fake news, trust matters and I hope The Late Late Show offered that over the years.’
Other names tipped to be in the running for the coveted presenting position included Claire Byrne and Miriam O’Callaghan, who ruled themselves out of the race.
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