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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Michelle Cullen

RTE Claire Byrne Live viewers slam 'bizarre' Covid interview with Fair City's George McMahon

RTE Claire Byrne Live viewers were left confused after Fair City's George McMahon appeared on Monday night's show to give his opinion on the government's decision to remove the requirement of mask-wearing.

The star who plays Mondo on the Irish soap said he would have liked the rule to remain a little while longer as he has become accustomed to wearing a mask and has become more aware of the germs that surround him.

He also joked that the masks have allowed him to go about his day to day tasks, such as running to the grocery shop without being stopped by women in the vegetable aisle to discuss what would be happening next in Fair City.

However, viewers of the show were left a little confused about why the producers chose George to come onto the show to speak about Covid.

The star who plays Mondo on the Irish soap said he would have liked the rule to remain a little while longer as he has become accustomed to wearing a mask and has become more aware of the germs that surround him. (Twitter)

Taking to Twitter, they expressed their surprise at seeing the actor.

They said: "Mondo talking about Covid and Masks in 2022. I've seen it all now".

A second wrote: "What would Mondo do? said no one ever."

While a third commented: "Seriously, Mondo from Fair City why not Biddy from Glenroe?"

"What do the producers of this programme be thinking of. I know get Mondo from Fair City," a fourth said.

Broadcaster Katie Hannon stepped in for Claire Byrne on the show as Claire enjoyed some time with her family over the mid-term break.

Katie, who is no stranger to TV and radio as she presents her own current affairs radio show called Saturday with Katie Hannon, which airs at 1 PM on RTÉ' Radio 1, was also joined by a young girl who is hard of hearing.

Liveline presenter Katie Hannon (rte.ie)

The studio discussed how masks had impacted those who rely on lip-reading to communicate.

Viewers were moved by the story and said they would now reconsider their views.

One person said: "I've no problem wearing a mask to be honest. Not a cold or flue have I had in 2 years but watching how the deaf are struggling I'm rethinking my view."

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