It's official! After months of speculation, we now know that Patrick Kielty will be the next host of The Late Late Show after Ryan Tubridy departs next week.
Ryan will host his final Late Late Show next Friday, May 26, and the rumour mill was working overtime as favourites to replace him came and went.
RTE has confirmed this morning, however, that the coveted role of host of the country's flagship talk show is going to Patrick Kielty, the stand-up comedian and presenter from Dundrum, Co Down.
READ MORE - Ryan Tubridy tells viewers what to expect from final Late Late Show as host
Patrick will take the helm for the 61st season of The Late Late Show in September, having established himself as a force in media across TV and radio in Ireland and the United Kingdom.
Commenting on his appointment, Patrick 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's talents were praised by Jim Jennings, RTE's Director of Content, ahead of the changeover in hosts.
He 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."
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