Gay Byrne has passed away, aged 85, RTÉ has confirmed

Former ‘Late Late Show’ host Gay Byrne has died at the age of 85

Gay Byrne has passed away at the age of 85. The legendary RTÉ broadcaster had been battling an illness for some time.

Originally from Dublin, Gay always had an interest in the entertainment industry. Not only did he join Raidió Eireann in the 1950s, but he was also the first host of RTÉ’s long-running chat show The Late Late Show.

In a statement by President Michael D Higgins, it was said, “A man of great charisma, Gay Byrne was someone who exuded warmth and presence, who was possessed of effortless wit, charm and who had a flair for broadcasting. This was combined with an innate gentleness as a person, professionalism and humour”.

The death has been announced of RTÉ broadcaster Gay Byrne. He was 85 and had been ill for some time. | https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2019/1104/1088580-gay-byrne/ https://twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1yoKMzeNYZkGQ

— RTÉ News (@rtenews) November 4, 2019

What’s more, RTÉ’s Director General Dee Forbes said, “We are all greatly saddened by the passing of Gay Byrne who has been a household name in this country for so many years”. She went on to say that, “Gay was an exceptional broadcaster whose unique and ground-breaking style contributed so much to the development of radio and television in this country”.

There is no doubt he will be sorely missed.

Gay is survived by his wife Kathleen, and their daughters Crona and Suzy.

Photo: RTÉ

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