First Airing of the Irish Late Late Show and Its Hosts

6th July 1962

IrelandXO Donnybrook (Dublin) County Dublin

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The Late Late Show is the second longest running talk show in the world

The first episode of The Late Late Show aired RTÉ on Friday the 6th of July 1962. It is filmed in front of a studio audience and broadcast live.

The original host of The Late Late Show was Gay Byrne, who served as the presenter from 1962 until 1999. He was succeeded by Frank Hall, Pat Kenny, Gerry Ryan, and Ryan Tubridy. There have also been several guest hosts throughout the years.

Gay Byrne

A picture of Gay Byrne, Irish talk show host. He was the host of The Late Late Show of Ireland.

Pat Kenny

A picture of Pat Kenny, Irish talk show host. He was a host on The Late Late Show of Ireland.

Gerry Ryan

A picture of Gerry Ryan, Irish talk show host. He was a host on The Late Late Show of Ireland.

Ryan Tubridy

A picture of Ryan Tubridy, Irish talk show host. He was a host on The Late Late Show of Ireland.

The Late Late Toy Show, an annual special episode dedicated to showcasing the biggest toys of the year in the run-up to Christmas has become an institution amongst the children of Ireland. The episode features reviews and performances from children. The highly sought after tickets are only available by a system of application and lottery, and the show has become known for producing some wonderful heartwarming and tear-jerking moments.