Daniel O’Donnell & Patrick Kielty Light Up The Late Late Show With a Joyful, Unscripted Dance to “I Just Want To Dance With You”
DUBLIN — In one of the most delightfully unexpected moments of the season, Daniel O’Donnell and Patrick Kielty turned RTÉ’s Late Late Show into a full-on celebration when the pair broke into a lively, good-humored dance during Daniel’s performance of the beloved classic “I Just Want To Dance With You.” What began as a charming musical number quickly transformed into a viral moment that showcased the best of Irish television: warmth, humor, spontaneity, and an artist who has spent four decades winning hearts through sincerity.
The energy in the studio was already buzzing when Daniel, dressed in his trademark polished suit, stepped onto the stage to perform one of his fan-favorite songs. From the very first line, he had the audience smiling — his voice steady, familiar, and full of the gentle positivity that has defined his long career. Daniel has always had a gift for making every performance feel personal, but on this night, he added something even more special.
Sensing the playful mood in the room, host Patrick Kielty approached Daniel with a grin that suggested mischief. As Daniel continued singing, Patrick offered his hand, inviting him into a lighthearted two-step. Daniel laughed, nodded, and without missing a beat, joined the host in a sweet, wholesome dance that had the audience cheering and clapping along in delight.
For those watching at home, it was the kind of moment that felt both completely unexpected and perfectly fitting — a charming demonstration of the camaraderie between two men who represent very different parts of Irish entertainment, yet share a genuine warmth that resonates with the public.
Daniel, ever the gentleman, kept singing even as he danced, guiding Patrick through the steps with an ease that made the moment look almost rehearsed — though the laughter, spontaneity, and joyful chaos made it clear it was anything but planned. The studio audience rose to their feet, some swaying side to side, others filming the moment on their phones, knowing instantly they were witnessing something special.
Patrick, who has brought a refreshing mix of humor, sincerity, and heart to his role as host of The Late Late Show, leaned fully into the fun of the moment. The two men spun gently, clapped on the beat, and shared a rapport that reminded viewers why Irish television remains so beloved — it leaves room for real moments.
Online, the clip spread quickly as fans praised the pair for bringing such wholesome joy to the screen. Comments flooded social media:
“Daniel O’Donnell dancing with Patrick Kielty is the serotonin boost I needed this week.”
“That moment is pure Irish gold — warm, funny, and real.”
“Daniel can charm absolutely any room. What a legend.”
The dance also highlighted something deeply characteristic of Daniel O’Donnell: his ability to connect with anyone — fans, interviewers, audiences of all ages. His music has always carried a sense of openness and welcome, and seeing him extend that spirit to Patrick Kielty in such a playful way reminded viewers why he remains one of Ireland’s most cherished entertainers.
When the song ended, Daniel and Patrick shared a brief embrace as the studio erupted in applause. Patrick, slightly out of breath but still grinning, joked, “Daniel, I don’t know if you’ve made me a better dancer, but you’ve made me a happier one.” Daniel just laughed, placing a hand over his heart, clearly moved by the warm reaction.
What could have been a simple performance became something much more — a moment of brightness at a time when viewers crave joy, connection, and a reminder of the simple pleasures that make live television unforgettable.
In the end, Daniel O’Donnell didn’t just perform “I Just Want To Dance With You.”
He lived it — and he brought the whole nation along for the dance.