SHOCKING REVEAL: Daniel O’Donnell Defends Ryan Tubridy Against Online Trolls and Weighs In on Late Late Show Future
Beloved Donegal country singer Daniel O’Donnell has stepped into the debate surrounding the future of The Late Late Show, defending outgoing host Ryan Tubridy against what he described as cruel online trolling. Speaking in an interview on Newstalk’s The Hard Shoulder, O’Donnell offered both support for Tubridy and insight into the challenges of presenting one of Ireland’s most iconic television programs.
“It’s a very difficult show to go from talking to a politician… to go to talk to me,” O’Donnell said, pointing out the unique balancing act required of the host, who must navigate a mix of hard-hitting interviews and lighthearted entertainment. He admitted that the criticism Tubridy received online was often excessive and unfair, particularly from a small but vocal group on social media.
“We mustn’t listen to all that’s written on Facebook,” he added. “Ryan got his own fair share of slating. It’s a minority of people writing horrible things about everybody. They’re scraping like seagulls on a rock.”
Tubridy, who has hosted The Late Late Show since 2009, announced earlier this year that he would be stepping down. While the show has faced declining viewership in recent years, O’Donnell emphasized that its challenges are not solely the fault of any one presenter. He explained that audience habits are changing, yet he personally remains a loyal viewer.
“Everybody’s saying it’s losing viewers, but I wouldn’t miss it if I’m at home,” he said. “I think there’s a lot of people like me.”
The conversation inevitably turned to speculation about who might take over the role of host. With high-profile names such as Claire Byrne and Sarah McInerney having ruled themselves out, the list of potential successors has been narrowing. When asked directly if he might consider hosting, O’Donnell gave a typically warm and light-hearted response.
“I didn’t rule myself in so I’m not ruling myself out,” he quipped, refusing to close the door entirely on the possibility. While clearly joking, his comment has already sparked playful chatter among fans who admire his natural charm and ease in front of an audience.
Still, O’Donnell acknowledged the weight of responsibility that comes with the role. “God help them whoever they are,” he said about the incoming host. “They’re dropping out like flies, all the people that were lining up for it. I really don’t know who should take over The Late Late Show — it’s a very difficult show to do.”
For O’Donnell, the discussion was less about speculation and more about showing empathy. He expressed concern for anyone stepping into the spotlight, reminding the public that the scrutiny faced by television hosts often comes with immense pressure. His defense of Tubridy underscored his belief that while criticism is inevitable, online trolling can be unnecessarily cruel and damaging.
As one of Ireland’s most enduring performers, Daniel O’Donnell has built a reputation for kindness and humility. His words carry weight not only because of his popularity but because of his perspective as someone who has himself been in the public eye for decades. By speaking up for Tubridy, he reminded audiences that behind the cameras and headlines are people navigating demanding jobs under constant scrutiny.
The future of The Late Late Show remains uncertain, but O’Donnell’s remarks highlight both the challenges and the enduring significance of the program. Whether or not he would ever seriously consider hosting, his defense of Tubridy and his acknowledgment of the pressures facing the next presenter struck a chord with fans and viewers alike.