Daniel O’Donnell on Being a Granddad — The Late Late Show, RTÉ One
Irish music legend Daniel O’Donnell melted hearts across the nation during his appearance on RTÉ’s The Late Late Show, as he opened up about one of the happiest new chapters in his life — becoming a grandfather. Known for his warmth, humor, and down-to-earth charm, Daniel’s reflections on family and grandparenthood brought a wave of smiles, laughter, and even a few tears from the studio audience.
The beloved Donegal singer, who recently celebrated his 60th birthday, spoke candidly with host Ryan Tubridy about the joy and wonder of welcoming his first grandchild. “It’s the most amazing feeling,” Daniel said, his face lighting up with genuine affection. “You think you know what love is when you have your own family — but then this tiny little person arrives, and suddenly, there’s a whole new kind of love you didn’t know existed.”
He went on to share how becoming a granddad has brought him a new sense of peace and perspective. “When you’re young, everything feels like it’s going so fast — the tours, the shows, the albums. Now, when I hold that baby, the world just slows down. It’s like everything else fades away for a few minutes. It’s pure joy.”
Ryan, smiling, teased him by asking whether he sings lullabies at bedtime. Daniel laughed, replying, “Oh, I do, but I have to be careful — if I start singing ‘My Donegal Shore’ or ‘Stand Beside Me,’ the poor child might not sleep at all! Maybe I’ll stick to ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.’” The audience erupted in laughter as Daniel continued, “But I think the baby already knows my voice — that might be my secret advantage!”
The singer also reflected on how his family has always kept him grounded despite his decades of fame. “Majella and I have been blessed,” he said warmly. “We’ve had wonderful years in music, but at the end of the day, it’s home that matters most. Family is everything — it’s where all the songs come from.”
Fans watching at home took to social media to praise Daniel’s honesty and tenderness, calling the interview “heartwarming,” “pure Daniel,” and “a reminder of why Ireland loves him so much.” Many noted how comfortable and joyful he seemed talking about family, proving that even after 40 years in show business, the man behind the microphone remains as humble and kind as ever.
Daniel ended the conversation with a smile and a sparkle in his eye: “You know, I’ve sung about love all my life — but being a granddad, that’s a love song all on its own.”
And in that one line, Daniel O’Donnell once again reminded the world why he continues to capture hearts — not just as an artist, but as a man whose greatest hits will always come from the heart.