The Late Late Toy Show Appeal has raised over €30m in total – as over €4.6m raised by viewers this year

RTÉ has announced that this year's Toy Show appeal has raised over €4.6m.

The Toy Show Appeal was inspired by Saoirse Ruane from Kiltullagh, Co. Galway, who appeared on The Late Late Toy Show in 2020.

Saoirse passed away in March 2024, and her legacy continues with the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal. 'Saoirse's Special Star' sat on top of the Toy Show Christmas tree, which could be seen at the start of the show.

Since its launch, The RTÉ Toy Show Appeal has raised over €30 million, with viewers in Ireland and around the world contributing over €4.6 million during and after Friday night's Late Late Toy Show.

According to RTÉ, the appeal currently supports over a million children and family members annually, funding initiatives that give young people nationwide opportunities, care, and assistance.

This year's Late Late Toy Show featured appearances by Roy Keane, Kingfishr, and CMAT, who dashed over to the RTÉ studio after performing in the 3Arena to surprise the Virgin Mary Girls School Choir, who performed a rendition of her track 'Stay For Something' and closed out the show.

"We cannot thank you enough for your amazing donations to this year’s RTÉ Toy Show Appeal," said host Patrick Kielty. "As we all saw on Friday night, at the heart of the Toy Show is kindness, from our children in the studio and from you watching at home.

"The difference your donations will make to kids and their families at this time of year is huge, and so appreciated. "To all of you who have helped change lives right across Ireland, we say a big go raibh maith agaibh."

Donations to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal remain open until 19 December 2025.

• Watch CMAT surprise the Virgin Mary Girls School Choir below: