Patrick Kielty is set to host the Late Late Show following Ryan Tubridy's exit from the second longest-running chat show in the world.
The Co Down comedian will be the fourth presenter of the iconic show for its 61st season next September. A delighted 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 RTE 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."
Read more: Ryan Tubridy says final Late Late will be 'night of celebration' and teases Toy Show reunion
Patrick, who began his stand-up career as host of Northern Ireland’s first comedy club The Empire Laughs Back in Belfast, has built a stellar career across TV and radio, while his live stand-up tours have sold out across Ireland and the UK. His BAFTA-nominated My Dad, The Peace Deal and Me saw him named UK documentary host of the year at the 2018 Grierson Awards, while his most recent film, Patrick Kielty:100 Years of Union also won an RTS award.
His first feature film, Ballywalter, where he stars alongside IFTA-nominated Seana Kerslake, is set to be released later this year.
Jim Jennings, RTE's Director of Content 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”.
Read next:
Parents of murdered Jastine Valdez make emotional tribute on fifth anniversary
Urgent recall for meat, fish & desserts sold in Tesco, Lidl and more
Father of Navan assault victim demands justice after five arrests made
Vogue Williams and Joanne McNally discuss their unlikely bond on the Late Late Show
Glen Hansard receives Paul McCartney autograph months after tribute concert
Sign up to the Dublin Live Newsletter to get all the latest Dublin news straight to your inbox.
