The first episode of RTE’s Brendan Grace documentary Thanks for the Memories aired last night – and viewers were left laughing and crying in equal measure.
The beloved comedian passed away in July of this year following a short battle with lung cancer, but spent his last few months working on this show.
Originally a behind-the-scenes look at the comedy legend’s final gig with the Forget-Me-Nots community choir, when Brendan was given his shock diagnosis, the series changed focus immediately and went from a documentary about a man fighting to put on a show, to the story of a man fighting for his life.
The first in a three-part series opened last night with a heart-wrenching intro from the man himself.
“Hiya folks, this is Brendan Grace here,” he said. “Not as well as I usually am, but I set out to do a documentary, and I wanted to dedicate it to Alzheimers and dementia. And I’m glad we’re going ahead with it, even though I’m not well.”
Sharing their heartbreak and adoration, viewers took to social media to share their thoughts.
Such a sad and poignant opening to this documentary. A very kind man from all I have heard. Great to have this documentary #brendangrace
— Festival floozie (@festivalfloozie) September 30, 2019
Hard to believe it is nearly 3 months since the legend that is #BrendanGrace left us.What a beautiful tribute on @RTEOne just now❤ #BrendanGraceThanksForTheMemories
— Mags Murphy (@margaretb2010) September 30, 2019
Brendan Grace is in a league of his own for love, laughter and being a total hero for me in my lifetime. The documentary #thanksforthememories is a gift of inspiration for us all as we go about our daily life 🙏😇
— Nicola Kearns (@NickiKearns) September 30, 2019
Heartbreaking shot of Brendan Grace from his hospital bed. He died three days later. What a legend.#ThanksForTheMemories@RTEOne
— Conor Greenan (@conorphoto) September 30, 2019
Best thing on RTE in years #Brendangrace #thanksforthememories
— John Murphy (@Murphjo63) September 30, 2019
For a programme that might have been sad, this is full of joy. Mind you, I’m a bit weepy either way. #BrendanGrace
— Philip Nolan (@philipnolan1) September 30, 2019
#Brendangrace really was an Irish institution, a gentleman and naturally funny boned, rip @RTEOne #thanksforthememories #rte
— Cosyhome Art and Interiors (@MaguireCarmel) September 30, 2019
What a lovely man Brendan grace was, heartbreaking to see him just before the end, ever the showman and wanting the show to go on despite knowing he wouldn’t make it. So sad #BrendanGrace #thanksforthememories
— Andra Johnston (@IamAndraJ) September 30, 2019
Words: Catherine Taylor