RTÉ Arena presenter Seán Rocks has died, aged 63

Tributes are pouring in from colleagues, listeners and friends of Seán Rocks this morning, following the very sad news of the death of the RTÉ Radio 1 Arena presenter, aged 63.

The popular broadcaster, who was on air just last Friday, died last night "following a brief illness," RTÉ have announced.

Rocks, who grew up in Monaghan town, first began presenting on RTÉ Lyric FM in 2000, before moving on to RTÉ Radio 1 to work in arts programming. He hosted the station's flagship arts, culture and entertainment programme, Arena, since it first launched in 2009.

In addition to his radio work, Rocks acted for many years – appearing in productions at the Abbey, Peacock and Gate theatres. He also had TV and film roles in the likes of The Bill, Glenroe, Fair City, Dear Sarah and Go Now.

Rocks was also well-known as a host and MC at notable cultural events, as well as important State occasions.

“It is with enormous shock and sadness that we learned today of Seán’s untimely passing," said Kevin Bakhurst, RTÉ Director-General. "Seán said once: 'Radio is never about the presenter. It’s about the person who is opposite you.' Loyal listeners, especially to Seán’s beloved and long-running Arena on RTÉ Radio 1, will recognise the man in that quote: modest yet learned; subtle yet probing; curious yet polite.

"The listener at home was always his focus. Not only is radio the poorer for his passing, but so too has Ireland lost one of its most passionate advocates for the arts, and one of its most informed and versatile voices. I want to extend my most sincere sympathies to Seán’s beloved Catherine, his children Christian and Morgan, his friends, and his colleagues at this terrible time.”

The National Concert Hall has also issued a statement.

Maura McGrath, Chairperson and Robert Read, CEO of the National Concert Hall said:

“Sean’s breadth of knowledge on all aspects of the arts, his warmth and personal interest in his guests set him apart. His intention was always to bring out the best in his guests and to broaden the appeal of the arts to the widest possible audience by being truly authentic and sharing his genuine interest in the arts.

"Sean attended the National Concert Hall regularly and indeed compered many events on stage with his inimitable charm, including most recently the NCH Lifetime Achievement Award to Dame Ann Murray in 2024. He will be sorely missed by all at the National Concert Hall, National Symphony Orchestra Ireland and wider arts community. Our thoughts are with his beloved Catherine, his sons Morgan and Christian and his wide circle of family and friends.”