Fans react to Hozier's performance of 'The Parting Glass' on The Late Late Show

One of the most moving moments of Friday's historic Late Late Show was Hozier's powerful performance of 'The Parting Glass' – dedicated to those who had lost their lives during the coronavirus pandemic.

The performance came on the heels of Taoiseach Leo Varadkar's announcement of further restrictions in the face of the COVID-19 fears, as well as the death of a healthcare worker in the country.

Friday also saw Miriam O'Callaghan become the first woman to host the Late Late Show, as she filled in for Ryan Tubridy – who has since confirmed that he tested positive for COVID-19.

Before Hozier's performance, O'Callaghan told the audience that she'd "like to dedicate it to all the people who've lost their lives to this virus, but in particular the health worker who died today.

Hozier, who was voted Artist of the Decade by Hot Press readers earlier this year, was on the show to issue an emergency appeal to support the ISPCC /CHILDLINE.  His performance of the ballad follows memorable modern interpretations from the likes of Liam Clancy, Sinéad O'Connor, The Pogues, The Dubliners and Ed Sheeran.

Take a look at some of the reactions to Hozier's performance below:

This is a profoundly moving dedication to those whom we have lost. @Hozier singing 'The Parting Glass', which in Irish tradition, is the last, bittersweet drink, offered to a departing guest as they leave for travel.pic.twitter.com/r5SWzKxO8U

— Aaron Vallely (@Vallmeister) March 28, 2020

Our national broadcaster nailed it last night. Poems on the news, tribute to frontline staff on flagship chat show and Hozier singing the parting glass. Very emotional night of TV viewing. https://t.co/YPbEw5qnPs

— John Cahill ☘Browns Ireland ☘ (@JohnCahill_Irl) March 28, 2020

i always rolled my eyes when i read about the frenzy whitney houston caused in the states after singing "the star-spangled banner" during the gulf war but then i saw hozier singing "the parting glass" on the late late and now i feel i understand

— Eoin Ó Catháin (@EoinKeane101) March 28, 2020

Ah listen, me heart - The Parting Glass sang by Ireland's head songbird @Hozier & all in aid of @ISPCCChildline - if you're in Ireland & you can, please text CHILDHOOD to 50300 to donate 4euro. Sadly to say not every child will get to stay in a safe home during this madness. x https://t.co/stBg6T0aTh

— Aisling Bea (@WeeMissBea) March 28, 2020

Ive heard many versions of the Parting Glass - I don't ever recall anything as hauntingly beautiful and appropraite as th version by @Hozier on @MiriamOCal #TheLateLateShow - I will gently rise and gently call, good night and God Bless you all.

— Hugh Gillanders (@HughGillanders) March 28, 2020

Mother of Christ. Just watched @Hozier sing The Parting Glass. Stick a fork in me I am DONE. 😭 Proud to be Irish. We Will Prevail 🇮🇪 #covid19 #LateLateShow

— Shane Beatty (@ShaneBeattyNews) March 28, 2020