A massive congratulations is in order as Patrick Kielty has officially landed the most coveted gig in the country, The Late Late Show hosting duties.
The Down man has been the frontrunner to take over from Ryan Tubridy for weeks now, with an official announcement being made today. We will be seeing him starting up his hosting role this September.
Sharing his excitement at joining the prestigious show, the comedian said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be the next host of The Late Late Show.
“To follow in the footsteps of Gay, Pat and Ryan as the next custodian is a real honour and I can’t thank RTÉ 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.”
Patrick began his stand-up career as host of Northern Ireland’s first comedy club The Empire Laughs Back in Belfast. Since then, he has built a stellar career across TV and radio, while his live stand-up tours have sold out across Ireland and the UK.
His BAFTA nominated My Dad, The Peace Deal and Me saw him named UK documentary host of the year at the 2018 Grierson Awards, while his most recent film, Patrick Kielty:100 Years of Union also won an RTS award.
Later this year will see the release of his first feature film, Ballywalter, where he stars alongside IFTA nominated Seana Kerslake.
RTÉ’s Director of Content Jim Jennings has said: “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”.
Patrick already has the approval of current host Ryan, as the presenter previously shared his praise for the comedian when discussing who may take on hosting duties.
Speaking on his radio show, Ryan noted: “Patrick Kielty featuring strongly and firmly in a lot of the papers today, with the suggestion being, ‘Maybe it’s time for another P.K to take over the Late Late Show!’”
Of course, Pat Kenny was the second host of the iconic chat show with Ryan taking over from him in 2009.
While he didn’t reveal anything in regards of who would be his replacement, he did note just how “lovely” Patrick was.
“Lovely man, though. Lovely fella, and a lovely wife and a good egg all around, so we’ll see where that all goes, shall we?” Ryan simply said.
A massive congratulations to Patrick, here’s wishing him the best of luck!
