Patrick Kielty says it is ‘real honour’ take over as host of Late Late Show

RTE confirmed that The Co Down man will become the fourth presenter of the iconic show when it airs for its 61st season next September.

A clearly delighted Kielty tweeted a link to a photoshoot where he is seen posing as the Rolling Stones song, ‘Start Me Up’ plays in the background.

“Posting this before they change their mind!” he joked. “A real honour to follow in the footsteps of Gay, Pat and Ryan. Thanks RTE for the chance to be a part of the next chapter.”

Patrick, from Dundrum, began his stand-up career as host of Northern Ireland’s first comedy club The Empire Laughs Back in Belfast.

Since then, he 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.

Later this year sees the release of his first feature film, Ballywalter, where he stars alongside IFTA nominated Seana Kerslake.

Patrick said he was “ 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."

Jim Jennings, RTÉ’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.”