A fitting tribute to one of the nation’s finest broadcasters.
The whole country tuned in to
RTÉ last night to watch a special edition of The Late Late Show in honour of Gay Byrne.
Featuring the show’s original opening music, a host of famous Irish faces appeared onstage. All honouring the man himself.
President Michael D Higgins celebrated the veteran broadcaster, praising him for his work and courage throughout his career. Other guests on the night included Bob Geldof, Pat Kenny, Andrea Corr and Tommy Tiernan.
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Ryan Tubridy, the current Late Late Show host, also saluted his “great friend” and “magnificent mentor” in the 90-minute live special.
Concluding the show with one final musical performance, it was an emotional night, to say the least.
Finbar Furey, John Sheahan of The Dubliners, Sharon Shannon, Donal Lunny and Mary Black lead the musical ensemble with a haunting rendition of the beloved classic The Parting Glass.
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Tributes have poured in for Mr Byrne since his passing on Monday, a testament to the country’s great love for him.
