Patrick Kielty to stay on as host of The Late Late Show until 2028

RTÉ have confirmed that Patrick Kielty will continue to host The Late Late Show until 2028.

The announcement ends months of media speculation following the expiration of his three-year deal in May.

It is believed that Patrick negotiated a new deal that will see him receive a pay increase for extending his role after he settled on an ‘overall package’ with the national broadcaster.

The director-general of RTÉ, Kevin Bakhurst, previously said he would like Patrick to stay on as the host, saying, “I’ve made it really clear to Patrick that we all think he’s doing a great job and we would like to continue that.”

However, Kielty was reported to be seeking a pay increase, despite an RTÉ rule that prohibits any presenter from earning more than the Director General’s basic salary of €250,000.

The presenter was confirmed as the fourth permanent host in May 2023, following Gay Byrne, Pat Kenny and Ryan Tubridy, a week after Tubridy hosted his final episode.

“Hosting The Late Late Show is one of the greatest gigs in the world and the past three years have been a joy and a privilege,” Kielty said. “The heart of the show will always be our amazing audience and I can’t wait to be part of their Friday nights again from this September.”

The television presenter has signed a new three-year deal, allowing for up to 30 shows per season.

“I am absolutely delighted that Patrick will remain at the helm of The Late Late for a further three years,” said RTÉ group head of entertainment and music Alan Tyler.

“Under his stewardship we have been able to give a new lease of life to the show, reaching audiences on both traditional and new platforms. The Late Late Show is only at the start of a revolution in that approach, and, with Patrick continuing in the hot seat, we are hugely excited about our plans for forthcoming seasons.”

RTÉ’s director of video Steve Carson said Kielty has made The Late Late his own and the figures “demonstrate his star power and easy connection with audiences young and old”.

“The Late Late celebrates its 66th season this year – so many more great editions and guests to look forward to with Paddy at the helm, including the biggest telly night of the year with The Late Late Toy Show,” he said.