Patrick Kielty's Late Late Show Future Uncertain as Contract Expires Without Renewal

Key facts

• Patrick Kielty's initial three-year contract with RTÉ expired after the season finale on Friday night.
• Kielty took over as host of The Late Late Show in 2023, succeeding Ryan Tubridy.
• The season finale featured guests including Boy George, Garron Noone, and Westlife, but no opening monologue from Kielty.
• RTÉ reported an average of 390,000 viewers per episode and 1.4 million streams on RTÉ Player for the season.
• Kielty's salary is €250,000 per season for 30 shows.
• Kielty addressed his separation from Cat Deeley and his mother's death in the season opener in September 2025.
• Kielty is the first non-Dublin host of The Late Late Show, hailing from County Down.

A Season Finale Without Answers

The final episode of The Late Late Show's current season ended on Friday night without any resolution to the mounting speculation over host Patrick Kielty's future. The comedian, who took over the flagship talk show three years ago, closed the programme with a simple farewell: "That is it from us for tonight and for this season. We hope you have a fab summer. This has been The Late Late Show. I've been Patrick Kielty." He then handed over to Westlife for a closing performance of If I Let You Go. Unlike previous episodes, Kielty did not deliver an opening monologue, a departure from his usual format. The band's Shane Filan said "see you in September" — but he was referring to Westlife's upcoming concerts in Dublin's 3Arena, not Kielty's return. The absence of any confirmation about the host's contract left viewers and industry observers in suspense.

Contract Talks in Limbo

Kielty's initial three-year contract with RTÉ expired after Friday's show, and reports from the Irish Independent last month indicated that negotiations were ongoing with no sign of a deal. An RTÉ spokesperson declined to comment on individual contracts, stating only: "As The Late Late Show reaches the end of another successful season, it has an average of 390,000 viewers per episode – 38% share with 1.4 million streams on RTÉ Player to date. We look forward to the programme returning for its 65th year in the autumn." The statement did not mention Kielty by name, leaving his status ambiguous. The host had previously confirmed his salary of €250,000 per season for 30 shows when he took the role in 2023. He has been commuting weekly from London to Dublin since assuming the position.

A Steady Hand After Turbulent Times

Kielty succeeded Ryan Tubridy, whose tenure had divided audiences — some appreciated his enthusiasm, others found his energy overwhelming. In contrast, Kielty has been praised for his steady, assured presence. He became the fourth host of The Late Late Show, following Gay Byrne, Pat Kenny, and Tubridy, and the first from outside Dublin. His third season began with a deeply personal opening monologue in September 2025, in which he addressed the end of his 13-year marriage to fellow broadcaster Cat Deeley, which came after the death of his mother earlier that year. "One of the greatest joys of hosting this show is that you're never alone," he told the audience. "And so to all of you who have been so kind to be my family these past few months, can I just say a huge go raibh míle. It's one of the many reasons why walking out here is always a privilege, why being back here with you tonight truly puts flesh on my bones."

Moments of Empathy and Connection

Throughout the season, Kielty demonstrated an ability to connect with guests on a human level. In May, he interviewed Lottie Ryan, daughter of the late broadcaster Gerry Ryan, to mark 15 years since her father's death. Kielty became visibly emotional when Ryan spoke of her father's legacy. "You're talking about legacy and people talk about what people did in their career; for me, his legacy is you and your brothers and sisters, and your wee fella. How proud would he be of you guys, what you've come through, and where you all are?" he told her. When Ryan expressed hope that her father would be proud, Kielty reassured her: "I don't think you need to hope, because I know he would. On behalf of all of us, I just want to say how much so many people in this country loved and admired him." He also showed a deft touch with lighter moments. Interviewing Chris O'Dowd, he delved into the actor's involvement with Roscommon underage football — a conversation that would be unlikely on a US talk show or even Graham Norton's BBC programme. Kielty's background as a former underage goalkeeper for Down informed his ability to engage with such topics.

The Toy Show and the Road Ahead

Despite the uncertainty over his contract, Kielty may still return to host The Late Late Toy Show in December, a beloved annual tradition that he has helmed for three years. The Toy Show has been a highlight of his tenure, showcasing his ability to handle the chaotic County Parade and the elaborate hair and makeup required for the magical night. However, with no confirmation from RTÉ, the question remains whether Kielty will be back for the show's 65th season in autumn. The broadcaster's statement expressed anticipation for the programme's return but carefully avoided committing to its current host. For now, viewers are left waiting — much like they were after the season finale, when the credits rolled without a promise of September.

The bottom line

• Patrick Kielty's three-year contract with RTÉ has expired, and no renewal has been announced despite speculation.
• The season finale ended without any mention of Kielty's future, leaving the status of the show's host uncertain.
• Kielty has been widely praised for his empathetic and steady hosting style, particularly in handling personal and emotional moments.
• RTÉ has confirmed the show will return for its 65th year but has not commented on Kielty's contract.
• Kielty's potential return for the Late Late Toy Show in December remains possible but unconfirmed.