Following the announcement earlier this week that Sean O’Rourke was retiring from RTÉ Radio 1after seven years, rumours have already been circulating with who is set to replace the radio host.
Pat Kenny is a name that has been mentioned a lot as he was originally replaced by Sean in 2013 on RTÉ Radio 1.
Pat Kenny made the move to Newstalk after leaving RTÉ, and has responded to rumours that perhaps he would return. Speaking with The Irish Independent he said, ” That door closed a long time ago.”
The Newstalk host was also asked who he thought could replace Sean on the popular radio show and revealed; “The smart money is on Claire Byrne” and also mentioned Miriam O’Callaghan.
After 25 years with RTE, Sean is set to hang up his boots on May 8th.
He has worked on RTE Radio 1’s Today since 2013, and revealed that he’ll miss the show, his colleagues, and of course, the wonderful listeners.
Speaking of his departure, Sean said, “For nearly seven years now it’s been my great privilege to sit in the best current affairs chair in Irish broadcasting.
“But nothing is forever. I’m going to be 65 in May and that’ll be as good a time as any to end the great adventure of Today SOR.”
He continued, “I’ve had an absolute ball – daily interviews, debates, elections, referendums, a memorable encounter with the Donald in Doonbeg… some great music and song, and the odd bit of hand-to-hand studio combat.
“All of it with a light dusting of fun, as we promised you at the very start. And all made possible by really talented, hard-working and loyal colleagues, to whom I’ll be forever grateful.”
Dee Forbes, Director-General, RTÉ added, “Sean O’Rourke’s contribution to Irish journalism, and to RTÉ, is hugely significant.
“From his start at the Connacht Tribune in 1973 to his latest years at the helm of our key morning current affairs radio programme, Sean has navigated and dissected the stories of the day with a rigour, tenacity, clarity and drive that is unmatched.
“His love for radio and for news, his passion for sport and reading, meant that he was an enormously well-rounded presenter too; informed, interested, and interesting.”
He’ll certainly be missed.
