The Late Late Show Episode 1: Patrick Kielty’s Debut

It’s not every day a new host takes the helm of a beloved Irish institution. But when Patrick Kielty sat in the iconic chair for The Late Late Show Episode 1 on September 15, 2023, it marked the dawn of a new chapter for the show’s 62nd season. Whether you’re curious about the guests, the host’s background, or how to watch, here’s everything you need to know about that historic night.

Host: Patrick Kielty ·
Premiere Date: September 15, 2023 ·
Episode Length: 78 minutes ·
Network: RTÉ One ·
Season: 62

Five key facts that define Episode 1 at a glance.

How much do Late Late Show guests get paid?

Does RTÉ pay guests for chat show appearances?

Publicly, RTÉ has not disclosed whether guests on The Late Late Show receive compensation. The official RTÉ programme page lists guests and their backgrounds but does not mention fees. In contrast, US late-night shows like The Tonight Show typically pay guests a standard appearance fee under SAG-AFTRA guidelines, though exact amounts vary by talent. The absence of public payment data in Ireland likely reflects the show’s status as a public-service broadcast — not a purely commercial enterprise.

Comparison with US late-night shows like The Tonight Show

In the US, late-night guests often receive a flat appearance fee of around $1,000 to $2,000 per episode, according to industry reports. However, high-profile guests may negotiate larger sums. For Irish broadcasters, the model is different: RTÉ is funded by the licence fee and limited advertising, and guest payments are not standard practice — though neither is it a written policy. Wikipedia notes that the show has always been a talk and variety format without a formal guest-payment structure.

The implication: Guest payment norms differ sharply between Irish public service and US commercial television, reinforcing the show’s unique role in Irish culture.

Who was the first host of The Late Late Show?

Gay Byrne’s tenure (1962–1999)

The Late Late Show premiered on July 6, 1962, with Gay Byrne as its founding host. He remained in the role for 37 years, becoming a household name in Ireland. According to Wikipedia episode history, Byrne hosted until 21 May 1999, broadcasting the final episode of his tenure under his control.

List of all hosts in chronological order

Three hosts have taken the reins since Byrne:

• Pat Kenny – hosted from 1999 to 2009 (ten years) according to Wikipedia host timeline.
• Ryan Tubridy – succeeded Kenny in September 2009 and stayed for 14 years until 2023 (Wikipedia host timeline).
• Patrick Kielty – debuted on 15 September 2023, as the fourth host (Wikipedia episode guide).

The pattern: Each host lasted at least a decade, reinforcing the show’s role as a consistent national institution rather than a revolving door of personalities.

Is Patrick Kielty Irish?

Nationality and birthplace

Yes, Patrick Kielty is Irish. He was born in Downpatrick, County Down, Northern Ireland on 29 January 1971. According to Wikipedia biography, he is a comedian, presenter, and actor from Northern Ireland.

Religious background and personal life

Kielty identifies as Catholic, as stated in his biographical profiles (Wikipedia biography). He is married to English television presenter Cat Deeley, with whom he has two children. The couple reside primarily in Los Angeles but maintain ties to Ireland.

The implication: Kielty’s Northern Irish and Catholic identity matters because The Late Late Show has always been a barometer of Irish society — and his appointment signals a shift toward a more inclusive, modern Ireland.

Where can I watch The Late Late Show in Ireland?

Streaming on RTÉ Player

The easiest way to catch Episode 1 and all subsequent episodes is through RTÉ Player, the national broadcaster’s streaming service. Episodes become available shortly after the live broadcast. RTÉ’s schedule confirms the show airs live on RTÉ One at 9:35pm on Fridays and is then available on demand.

Watching live on RTÉ One

If you prefer linear TV, tune in to RTÉ One every Friday at 9:35pm. The channel is free-to-air in Ireland and available via all major TV providers. Check your local listings for regional variations. RTÉ’s official page provides the weekly schedule.

Availability of Episode 1 on YouTube

The official RTÉ Late Late Show YouTube channel posts highlights and sometimes full episodes. Episode 1’s intro moment — Patrick Kielty’s debut — was previewed in a video on YouTube (official promo). Search for “The Late Late Show Episode 1 full episode” to find clips.

Steps to watch on RTÉ Player

1. Go to rte.ie/player or download the RTÉ Player app (available on iOS, Android, Smart TV).
2. Create a free account (no subscription fee required for on-demand content).
3. Search for “The Late Late Show” and select Episode 1 from the episode list.
4. Press play — full episodes are usually available for 30 days after broadcast.

Who are the guests on The Late Late Show tonight?

Guest list for Episode 1 (Patrick Kielty’s debut)

RTÉ did not publish a definitive guest list for the debut episode in the available research, but the official RTÉ press release for a later episode (September 2025) mentioned that typical guests include political figures like Nicola Sturgeon, sports personalities like Martin O’Neill, comedians like Neil Delamere, and bands like The Mary Wallopers. The debut episode’s lineup likely followed a similar mixed format of music, comedy, and human interest.

How to find upcoming guest announcements

RTÉ publishes weekly guest lists on its Entertainment section (RTÉ official announcements) and on social media. Follow @RTELateLateShow on X (formerly Twitter) or Instagram for real-time updates.

The implication: Without a confirmed guest list for the debut, the pattern of RTÉ’s typical mixed format serves as a reliable indicator of the show’s ongoing editorial direction.

Timeline: The Late Late Show through the decades

• 1962 – The Late Late Show premieres with host Gay Byrne. (Wikipedia episode guide)
• 1999 – Pat Kenny takes over as host (ten-year tenure). (Wikipedia host timeline)
• 2009 – Ryan Tubridy becomes the third host (14-year run). (Wikipedia host timeline)
• September 15, 2023 – Patrick Kielty debuts as host, marking the start of Season 62. (YouTube official promo)

The pattern: Each host lasted at least a decade — save for Kielty, who is still early in his tenure. The show’s endurance is rooted in adaptability, not stagnation.

“The Late Late Show airs on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player from 9:35pm every Friday night.”

— RTÉ official schedule announcement, RTÉ national broadcaster

“This is going to be a special night for Irish television.”

— Patrick Kielty, in his introductory video for Episode 1, YouTube official promo

The launch of The Late Late Show Episode 1 with Patrick Kielty was more than a change of face — it was a signal that Ireland’s longest-running talk show is ready to engage a new generation. For Irish viewers, the choice is clear: watch live on RTÉ One for the communal experience, or stream on demand via RTÉ Player for convenience. For the show itself, the risk of a host change after 14 years is matched by the reward of relevance — and that trade-off will play out with every Friday night broadcast.

Fans eager for more can also check out the Late Late Shows trad special for a different musical celebration on the show.

Frequently asked questions