Daniel O’Donnell Tells a Hilarious Story About Packie Bonner on The Late Late Show.
During a special edition of The Late Late Show celebrating Daniel O’Donnell’s 60th birthday, viewers were treated not only to music, tributes, and heartfelt reflections, but also to one of the funniest and most unexpected moments of the night. The unforgettable highlight came when Daniel shared a comedic story involving Irish goalkeeping legend Packie Bonner, leaving the studio audience — and Packie himself — laughing uncontrollably.
As part of the birthday celebration, host Ryan Tubridy welcomed several special guests to honor Daniel’s remarkable career. Among them was Packie Bonner, a national hero known for his World Cup heroics and easygoing charm. But as soon as Daniel began telling his story, Packie’s friendly smile turned into one of amused dread. He already knew what was coming, and the audience sensed they were in for something good.
Daniel started by recalling the time he and Packie appeared together on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? several years earlier. He explained how they found themselves facing a question that seemed tailor-made for Packie — a question about footballers and their ages. As soon as Daniel mentioned “football,” the audience erupted, anticipating the twist.
Before Daniel could continue, Packie nervously tried to interrupt the story. “I have to stop you, because this was a set-up!” he exclaimed, half-laughing and half-pleading. His attempt to take control only made the room laugh harder.
Ryan Tubridy immediately intervened with perfect comedic timing: “Let the birthday boy tell the story!”
The audience cheered, and Packie surrendered with a grin, settling back into his seat as Daniel carried on.
Daniel admitted he felt doomed as soon as the football question appeared.“When I heard a question about football, I thought, well, that’s the end of me,” he said with his usual gentle humor. “Packie Bonner will know this.”
But then came the punchline — one that Daniel delivered with playful pride:
Despite everyone assuming Packie would breeze through the question, Daniel got the answer right… and Packie didn’t.
Daniel reenacted Packie’s dramatic reaction that day:
“Packie says to me, ‘I will never be able to go home — you beat me at a football question!’”
The audience roared with laughter, and Packie, blushing and laughing, threw up his hands once more:
“It had to be a set-up! Daniel must have been tipped off!”
It was a moment of pure entertainment — unscripted, warm, and full of genuine affection. The story worked not only because it was funny, but because it showcased the special bond between two Irish icons who are confident enough to laugh at themselves and each other.
What made the moment even more touching was the setting. This was a celebration of Daniel O’Donnell’s sixty years on earth and his decades-long career that touched millions. Instead of focusing on grand achievements, Daniel chose to highlight a small, funny memory that spoke volumes about who he is: humble, good-humored, and deeply connected to the people around him.
Packie’s presence added something special. He and Daniel share Donegal roots, Irish spirit, and a love of storytelling. Their playful banter onstage reminded viewers why they adore both men — not just for their talents, but for their authenticity.
As the night continued with music and tributes, many fans said the funniest and most memorable moment was this delightful story of how Daniel O’Donnell, a gentle singer from Kincasslagh, once beat Packie Bonner, Ireland’s legendary goalkeeper, in a football question on national television.
It was a reminder that the best stories are often the ones that surprise us — and the best laughter comes from the moments we least expect.