Patrick Kielty’s New Three-Year Late Late Show Deal: What This Means for the Future of Irish Television and Your Investment Opportunities
Ever wonder what it takes to turn one of the longest-running live talk shows into a thriving, multi-platform sensation? Patrick Kielty seems to have cracked the code—and he’s locked in for the long haul. With his contract with RTÉ extended until 2028, this Co Down-born comedian-turned-TV powerhouse isn’t just hosting The Late Late Show; he’s reinventing it. Imagine juggling up to 30 shows a season and still managing to keep millions glued to their screens, with social media buzzing like never before. It’s not just about the numbers—though they’re impressive—it’s about the connection Kielty’s built with an audience that spans generations. Hosting the show since 2023, he stepped into some notably big shoes, replacing Ryan Tubridy, and he’s proven that sometimes, fresh energy is exactly what a classic format needs. The 66th season kicks off this September, promising more laughs, insights, and must-see TV moments. Curious how a stand-up comedian became RTÉ’s second-highest-paid presenter and a digital sensation? You’re in the right place. LEARN MORE
Patrick Kielty has extended his contract with RTÉ to host The Late Late Show until 2028.
Under the three-year deal, Kielty is contracted to present up to 30 shows per season.
Kielty began his career as a stand-up comedian and has built a robust career across television and radio in the UK and Ireland.
The Co Down native has fronted the Late Late since 2023, becoming the fourth permanent host of the world’s longest-running live talk show when he replaced Ryan Tubridy. The 66th season of the Late Late begins in September.
“Hosting The Late Late Show is one of the greatest gigs in the world, and the past three years have been a joy and a privilege,” said Kielty.
“The heart of the show will always be our amazing audience, and I can’t wait to be part of their Friday nights again from this September.”
Kielty’s initial contract with the national broadcaster was worth €250,000 per year, in line with the pay cap instituted by Kevin Bakhurst when he became director general.
In 2025, Kielty was listed as RTÉ’s second-highest-earning presenter, making a reported €266,323, up from €257,657 the previous year
In 2025/26, the Late Late had an average of 385,000 viewers per episode with a 38.2% share and over 1.46m streams on RTÉ Player.
The figures represent an increase from the previous year, and the show also saw increased traction on social media with 6.8m engagements (+53%) and 88.7m video views (+19%).
Steve Carson, RTÉ’s director of video, said: “Patrick has made the Late Late truly his own and the figures, not least the incredible engagement on social media, demonstrate his star power and easy connection with audiences young and old.
“The Late Late celebrates its 66th season this year – so many more great editions and guests to look forward to with Paddy at the helm, including the biggest telly night of the year with The Late Late Toy Show.”
Alan Tyler, RTÉ group head of entertainment and music, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Patrick will remain at the helm of The Late Late for a further three years.
“Under his stewardship, we have been able to give a new lease of life to the show, reaching audiences on both traditional and new platforms.
“The Late Late Show is only at the start of a revolution in that approach, and, with Patrick continuing in the hot seat, we are hugely excited about our plans for forthcoming seasons.”
Photo: Patrick Kielty. (Pic: Stuart C. Wilson/Getty Images)
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