The Late Late Show is back after its four month long hiatus, and there were plenty of changes.
With a new set, a new opening, a new logo, and most importantly a new host, as comedian Patrick Kielty took over the iconic chat show.
His debut was long awaited, as fans speculated about who might join the Down native for his inaugural episode, and what he’d bring to the show. Well, the moment finally arrive last night, and viewers were thrilled.
Patrick started-off the show strong with a hilarious, yet moving opening monologue. During which he poked fun at RTÉ and the payment scandal, while sharing how important the Late Late Show hosting gig was to him.
His first guests were Tommy Tiernan, Hector Ó hEochagáin and Laurita Blewitt, who chatted about their podcast, Tommy, Hector, & Laurita. Tommy also spoke about his recent ventures in America, Hector of his latest show, and Laurita on her connections to US President, Joe Biden.
Former President of Ireland and fellow Co. Down native Mary McAleese then joined them on the couches. Discussing her love of GAA, her past teaching, and her thoughts on a United Ireland.
Chasing Abbey were the first musical guests of the new season. Which was followed by a chat with The 2 Johnnies, who discussed their upcoming show. Johnny Smacks also opened up about married life, and the pair also chatted about their travels.
Patrick’s final guest was footballer James McClean, who spoke on his recent move to Wrexham A.F.C. – the Welsh football team owned by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. As well as family life, abusive football fans, James and his daughter’s recent autism diagnosis, and his 100th cap milestone.
Of course, viewers were tuned in to see how Patrick’s first night as host would go, and critics and viewers a like couldn’t help but rave about his opening night.
Patrick Kielty’s opening monologue was an absolute masterclass in calling the moment. Funny & from the heart – the hardest things to get just right. This man is going to elevate the #LateLate to a whole other level. #RTE #LateLateShow pic.twitter.com/i7SlPdoike
— Jarlath Regan (@Jarlath) September 15, 2023
Watched #LateLateShow on +1 and have to say Patrick Kielty was a breath of fresh air. An emotionally moving start, plenty of laughs and overall an All Ireland show. Job well done
— Réada Cronin TD (@ReadaCronin) September 15, 2023
Patrick Kielty’s debut on the Late Late Show was just superb and rip-roaringly funny. 10/10 pic.twitter.com/etiJ6sAjHd
— Edward White (@Editorialz) September 15, 2023
I haven’t watched it in years but decided to watch tonight. Am delighted to report I really enjoyed Patrick Kielty on the #LateLateShow
— Lorna Mills Carroll (@LornaMillsCarr1) September 15, 2023
📺 Patrick Kielty’s 1st #LateLateShow was interesting, surprising, serious, funny, entertaining and brilliant! He has certainly put his own stamp on Ireland’s flagship television show 🦉 pic.twitter.com/IAAXRpHXEA
— Justin McNulty (@JustinMcNu1ty) September 15, 2023
Enjoying @RTELateLateShow
Great monologue to open from PK – oops just realised! Patrick Kielty, not the other PK!
Sharp wit, and beautiful story about his family. Loved his shout out to his two boys.
Got to go to bed now. Have my own show to do tomorrow.
Keep it goin’ Paddy! pic.twitter.com/rbZTY9IzGB— Gareth O’Callaghan (@GarethOCal) September 15, 2023
RTE a) hiring Patrick Kielty and b) letting him be himself, might be the best decision they’ve made in years. Superb so far. I’d actually…watch this. #LateLateShow
— Paddy O’Brien (@Paddy__Paddy) September 15, 2023
Patrick Kielty explaining his opening jokes to RTE management in between the breaks #LateLateShow pic.twitter.com/G9P57ZNW40
— Killian (@KillianSmith94) September 15, 2023
Loving #LateLateShow so far.
I think Patrick Kielty is a much needed palate cleanser for RTE right now.He’s super.
— Alison O’Connor (@alisonoconn) September 15, 2023
Wow, what a start by Patrick Kielty. Truly top class. #LateLate
— Shane (@ItsGillen) September 15, 2023
Patrick Kielty is like a breath of fresh air to the Late Late show great guests and music a must watch every Friday from now on 😊👏👏👏
— james fahey (@jamesfahey15) September 15, 2023
What a debut #LateLateShow for Patrick Kielty! He absolutely smashed it. Hilarious, unique and a brilliant interviewer. The most fun I’ve ever had watching this show ever. A new Friday essential for me!
— Liam De Brún (@liamdeb) September 15, 2023
First time (apart from Toy Shows) that I am willingly watching the Late Late of a Friday night thanks to Patrick Kielty and all the hard working production crew at RTÉ! This country needed to laugh so much, it’s been a long summer, keep up the great work all, onwards we go…🇮🇪💚
— Lisa Treacy (@Lisa_Treacy) September 15, 2023
Solid opening from Patrick Kielty on the #LateLateShow tonight his genuineness shining through already pic.twitter.com/6bDsZHR3H3
— Mark Smyth (@psychpolis) September 15, 2023
Love love loved the #LateLateShow tonight. Patrick Kielty- the hero we never knew we needed. https://t.co/5yYQqBDGR3
— Louise McCorry (Keenan) (@louisek59152495) September 15, 2023
Fantastic opening from Patrick Kielty, bravo.
Comedy is a much needed antidote given the recent months.#LateLateShow
— Craig Hughes (@hughescraig90) September 15, 2023
Maith thú Patrick Kielty! Great start and you can see how genuine and how much presenting the show means to him! #LateLateShow
— Gráinne McElwain (@grainnemac3) September 15, 2023
Patrick Kielty 👏 that’s how you host a late night talk show. Funny and inclusive to all. Great to see guests from the north included too. Feels like the shows moving in the right direction. ☘️
— Craig McNamee (@CraigMcNamee) September 15, 2023
Two minutes in and I’ve already laughed more than I ever have at The Late Late. Delighted for Patrick Kielty
— Helly Kelly (@hellsbelles88) September 15, 2023
Was getting Toy Show feels tonight. Two blankets, a takeaway and nearly an hour in and Patrick Kielty isn’t disappointing. Feels much more free flowing and my God, we could all do with a bit of humour. #TheLateLateShow
— Aoife Kearns (@kearns_aoife) September 15, 2023
Superb opening from Patrick Kielty – personable, charming, funny and the perfect amount of shade and RTE self awareness. Great start to the new #LateLateShow #latelate
— Mikie O’Loughlin (@Mikie_Ol) September 15, 2023
Glad I tuned in for that. Best #LateLateShow in years. Patrick Kielty is perfect for this job and brings something to the show it’s missed for a long long time.
— Éanna Crehan (@spiralism1) September 15, 2023
