Daniel O’Donnell Tells Hilarious Story About Packie Bonner on The Late Late Show
There was laughter, music, and pure Irish mischief on The Late Late Show Friday night as Daniel O’Donnell celebrated his 60th birthday — and left both the audience and Irish football legend Packie Bonner in stitches with a story no one saw coming.
In a special episode honoring the beloved Donegal singer’s milestone, the show brought together friends, family, and famous faces who have shared Daniel’s journey through the years. But it was the reunion with former Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Packie Bonner that stole the spotlight — thanks to a hilarious tale from their time together on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?
As Daniel began to recount the story, he could barely keep from laughing. “When I heard a question about football come up, I thought, well that’s the end of me,” he said, flashing his trademark grin. “Packie Bonner will know this — it was about the age of some footballers in order. I thought I’d have no chance.”
But, in true O’Donnell fashion, the story took a brilliant twist. “Lo and behold if I didn’t get it right — and of course, I beat Packie!” he continued, as the audience erupted in laughter. “Packie says to me, ‘I’ll never be able to go home — you beat me at a football question!’”
The crowd roared as the camera cut to Packie Bonner, who was laughing so hard he turned red. Before Daniel could go on, Bonner playfully interrupted, saying through his laughter, “I have to stop you because this was a setup!”
Host Ryan Tubridy quickly stepped in with a smile, telling the football legend, “Let the birthday boy tell his story!” — sending the audience into another round of giggles.
Still chuckling, Bonner added, “It had to be a setup, can I just say? Daniel must’ve been tipped off!” Daniel, ever the gentleman, just laughed and shrugged, enjoying every second of the good-natured teasing.
The exchange was one of the highlights of the evening — a perfect reflection of Daniel O’Donnell’s easy humor, warmth, and quick wit, the same qualities that have made him one of Ireland’s most cherished entertainers for over four decades.
As the night went on, the celebration featured musical tributes, heartfelt messages, and plenty of stories that showcased not just Daniel’s success, but the deep affection the Irish public has for him. But it was that lighthearted moment with Packie Bonner — two legends from different worlds sharing laughter on live TV — that captured the heart of the nation.
Fans flooded social media afterward, with comments like “Only Daniel could outsmart Packie Bonner on a football question!” and “That’s Irish TV gold right there!”
It was a night of celebration, music, and laughter — and in true Daniel O’Donnell style, even a story about Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? turned into a classic moment of joy.