PATRICK KIELTY LEFT RED-FACED AFTER LIVE BLUNDER ON THE LATE LATE SHOW JUST MOMENTS BEFORE INTRODUCING DANIEL O’DONNELL
DUBLIN — RTÉ viewers were treated to an unexpected mix of laughter, surprises, and heartfelt moments on Friday night’s Late Late Show, after host Patrick Kielty stumbled into a live on-air blunder just seconds before welcoming music star Daniel O’Donnell to the stage.
The special Halloween-themed episode opened with Kielty dramatically rising out of a coffin, wearing vampire fangs as Thriller played through the studio. But the theatrical moment quickly turned comedic when Kielty greeted viewers with:
“Good evening and welcome to our Christmas— sorry, I mean Halloween special.”
Visibly embarrassed, the host covered his face as the audience erupted in laughter. Kielty quickly regained his composure, joking through the moment and moving on with the show.
In an attempt to tease the night’s guest lineup, Kielty told viewers he would soon be joined by a member of the “Royle family.” Moments later, he produced a Daniel O’Donnell mask, playfully poking fun at the beloved Donegal singer.
But mid-joke, the real Daniel O’Donnell suddenly appeared behind him — arms folded and far from amused.
The audience roared as Kielty feigned fear. O’Donnell then handed him a cue card and instructed the host to introduce him properly.
“He’s written it himself,” Kielty joked while reading aloud:
“Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to the biggest star and best singer we have ever had on this show.”
O’Donnell then joined Kielty on set, offering a warm embrace before taking his seat for the interview.
During the conversation, Daniel O’Donnell looked back on his long career in the music industry, sharing stories that had the studio audience laughing throughout.
He also took a moment to speak about the late Sinéad O’Connor, who passed away in July, offering a heartfelt tribute to the iconic artist.
“We had a lovely night the night Sinead and I appeared on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?,” O’Donnell recalled. “I remember us going into a big room here after the show and we danced together — she was a terrific artist.”
He added:
“She was such a generous and kind person, especially to the people of Bray. She is missed by so many, but her passing was a huge loss to her family.”
Despite the early slip-up, Patrick Kielty steered the episode with humor and ease, turning the mistake into one of the night’s most memorable moments. Daniel O’Donnell’s mix of playful banter and heartfelt reflection added depth to the Halloween special, reminding viewers why he remains one of Ireland’s most admired and enduring performers.
The episode combined comedy, music, nostalgia, and genuine emotion — making it one of the standout Late Late Show broadcasts of the season.