Daniel only star to chat to all four ‘Late Late’ hosts
Singer Daniel O’Donnell holds the record of being interviewed by Gay Byrne, Pat Kenny, Gerry Ryan, and Ryan Tubridy.
The Donegal entertainer said all brought a unique style to the show, which celebrates its 50th anniversary tonight.
“Somebody reminded me that I am the only person to be interview on the show by all four presenters.
“All four were very different presenters but they all brought their own unique style to the programme,” he said.
Daniel said his earliest memory of The Late Late was when his sister Margaret (Margo) appeared with Gay Byrne in the 1960s.
“I was only a boy and Margaret was only 16 or 17 and it was such a huge deal. We all sat around the television and watched her and we just couldn’t believe she was on the show. When she came home to Donegal we had a big party for her.
“Even now when I go on the show I get a little nervousbecause it is the biggest show on Irish television.”
The singer said he estimates he has been on the show on up to 20 occasions. However, he says the occasion that sticks most in his mind is the show which Pat Kenny hosted for the victims of the Omagh Bombing.
“I was singing on the show that night and it is something I will never forget. It was such a touching occasion.
“People have their own favourite Late Late Shows but there are so many great moments that it’s difficult to pick one which really stands out,” he said.
Daniel said he hopes the Late Late Show will go on forever saying it was “part and parcel” of Irish society now.
“People said when Gay left it wouldn’t be the same and they said the same when Pat left.
“I know numbers might be down but there is so much choice on television channels these days that people can choose whatever they want to watch.
“But I think The Late Late Show has and always will be part of Irish culture and I hope it continues.”
