The Late Late Country special is always a big hit, but this year’s proved particularly notable as it is Ryan Tubridy’s last one as host, after the Dubliner announced he is leaving the long-running chat show.
But Ryan made sure his last country special went out with a bang, impressing viewers, with many taking to Twitter and raving about this year’s edition.
They pulled out all the stops, with some of Ireland’s biggest country stars making an appearance. Daniel O’Donnell, Philomena Begley, Cliona Hagan, and Nathan Carter were in the hot seat getting interviewed by Ryan. During which they announced An Post’s first collection of Country Music stamps. Featuring dedicated stamps for the four artist along with the late Big Tom.
Of course, it would have been a country music special without some country music!
Margo, Derek Ryan, Claudia Buckley, TR Dallas, Trudi Lalor, Johnny Brady, Clodagh Lawlor, Niamh Lynne, Olivia Douglas, Chantelle Padden and Toy Show’s Cailin Joe all performed on last night’s show, sharing the songs that had the biggest impact on their lives.
With some classic country hits by the likes of Dolly Parton, The Bellamy Brothers and Garth Brooks, being honoured on the night.
Along with some pop ballads, as Miley Cyrus’ hit Flowers, with given a country twist by four of the ladies.
But hands down the most touching moment was when 72-year-old Margo O’Donnell was inducted into the Irish Country Music Hall of Fame.
Being presented with the prestigious honour on the show by her brother Daniel.
The adorable moment caught the hearts of many, as did the entire show, with viewers heaping praise on the special episode.
Taking to Twitter fans shared their reactions.
Just home from my gig and flicked on the #LateLateShow
The one thing about these country singers/crew is that they’re the hardest performers in Ireland out gigging all across the place, all ages…fair play to them @RTELateLateShow
— CROSSY (@CrossyTweets) March 31, 2023
Lovin the country show. I’ll be line dancin any minute now 💃 #latelate #latelateshow
— Dervla (@dervlam) March 31, 2023
Brilliant show tonight on the late late country special ye all did fantastic well done to ye all @iamNATHANCARTER @derekryanmusic & Everyone involved and Ryan Tubridy you will be missed as your a great presenter ❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏 #GreatShow 🤠🤠🤠😎👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/Owd6dhcLqh
— lorraine o sullivan (@tweetlorraine26) April 1, 2023
You can’t beat the country special #LateLateShow pic.twitter.com/2vRFwNMgnQ
— Damien (@DGLODGE) March 31, 2023
Second favourite night of the year .. its the country person’s toy show #LateLateShow
— Aislinnp23 (@AISLINNprender1) March 31, 2023
The Late Late Country Special is not just a music show. it’s a tribute to a big industry in Ireland. It provides massive employment; and it provides massive happiness. Am saying this as a very late convert to country music #TheLateLateShow
— Seamus Sheerin. (@SsSeamus) March 31, 2023
I would literally sell my mother to be at the #LateLateShow Country night @RTELateLateShow
— Robert Carthy روبي (@CarthyRobbie) March 31, 2023