Patrick Kielty named as new Late Late Show host

Patrick Kielty will host the Late Late Show as it heads into its 61st season.

Patrick Kielty will take over from Ryan Tubridy as host of the Late Late Show  next season.

The 52-year-old Down native is set to become the fourth presenter of the Friday night show, ahead of it's 61st season next September.

The comedian, who is married to English presenter Cat Deeley, is best known for his work as host of Northern Ireland’s first comedy club The Empire Laughs Back in Belfast.

He has previous chat show host experience presenting Patrick Kielty Almost Live  for BBC1 Northern Ireland from 1999 to 2003.

Much of his stand-up material over the years came from growing up in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. In January 1988, his father, Jack Kielty, was murdered by loyalist paramilitaries. 

Kielty said he is “absolutely thrilled” to land the Late Late Show  hot seat.

“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,” he said. 

“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.”

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RTÉ’s director of content Jim Jennings 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.”

Ryan Tubridy's last run in the Late Late Show  presenter's chair will take place next Friday