As this season of The Late Late Show comes to an end this weekend, host Ryan Tubridy has been reflecting on what’s been an ’emotional, difficult and poignant’ few months.
Airing most of the season during the Covid19 pandemic, Ryan – and his team – handled the show with care, informing audiences around the country on best health practices, while also offering a welcomed distraction with celebrity performances and interviews.
Over the course of the season, Ryan himself was diagnosed with Coronavirus, and broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan stepped in, becoming the first woman to ever front the show.
Thanking everyone involved – and everyone at home who watched every week – Ryan reminisced over the past few months.
“As we reach the end of this extraordinary season, I want to thank the frontline workers who came on the show in September with such grace and dignity and were acknowledged by the Irish public for their work,” he said in a statement.
“Fast forward a number of months and they did not let us down, they went on to serve the country in a way that we have never seen before. They have been amazing, as are their families who have had to sit by and watch the sacrifices being made on a daily basis.”
He continued, “I also want to thank the viewers of The Late Late Show, who stayed with us each week and supported charities, putting their hands in their pockets to help the neediest among us.
“I want to thank the team behind the scenes, the crews, everyone in RTÉ who showed up to keep the show on the road.
“Also, thanks to the many musicians for showing up and doing their bit and helping charities along the way.”
Ryan also spoke about how RTE lost some incredible talent over the last year, and while they’re missed, will never be forgotten.
“This season we lost Gay Byrne, such an iconic person in my life, professionally and personally,” he said.
We also had to say goodbye to Marian Finucane and Larry Gogan – all true legends of Irish broadcasting.
“It has been an emotional, difficult, poignant, and joyful season overall.”
Catch the final episode Friday night on RTE One at 9.35pm.