We are deeply saddened to hear the very sad news of the death of our friend and colleague, John McHugh. John was an exceptionally talented creative leader who shaped and brought many high profile and cherished shows to audiences here and in the UK. He had a deep understanding of and commitment to public service broadcasting. John was hugely popular with colleagues, guiding and supporting others at all stages of their career.
John joined RTÉ in the 1980s as a researcher and worked on programmes such as The Late Late Show with Gay Byrne, including the legendary Dubliners Special, and was Head of Delegation for the Eurovision Song Contest in 1993. He produced programmes and live events such as 1995 Eurovision Song Contest, Kenny Live and Tubridy Tonight.
John went on to join Channel 4 in London, becoming Head of Entertainment before moving to the BBC where he held senior roles in the BBC’s Entertainment team. He returned to Ireland in 2007 to become Chief Executive of independent producer Tyrone Productions for five years, during which time he was executive producer on programmes for RTÉ including The All Ireland Talent Show, Ireland’s Greatest and Gaybo.
John returned to RTÉ as Executive Producer of The Late Late Show in 2012, and in 2013 he was appointed Head of Entertainment and later Group Head of Entertainment and Music until 2022, where he was responsible for a slate of popular programming including the Late Late Show, Ireland’s Fittest Family, The Voice of Ireland, Dancing with the Stars, and The Saturday Night Show.
Our deepest condolences are with John’s wife Pauline, his family, friends and colleagues. He will be dearly missed. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Ends
Date: Friday 6th March 2026
For more information:
Maureen Catterson, RTÉ Communications, maureen.catterson@rte.ie
