–  2.2 million* TV viewers tune in across the weekend
–  Over 31 million online page impressions on RTÉ.ie and RTÉ News app over the count weekend
– 14.35 million video views of count coverage on RTÉ social channels
– Results coverage on RTÉ Player streamed in 154 countries including China, Mali and Kazakhstan

Huge audiences engaged with RTÉ’s comprehensive General Election 2024 results coverage across all platforms as it unfolded this weekend.  

RTÉ delivered comprehensive coverage of this weekend’s General Election results, with all the breaking news and updates from count centres throughout the country as well as analysis on developments delivered across video, audio, app and online to audiences at home and abroad.

RTÉ News’ online coverage received over 31 million page views in just two days on the RTÉ News App and

RTE.ie. In addition 14.35 million video views of election coverage were consumed across all RTÉ’s social media channels and platforms including Tik Tok, Instagram, X, Bluesky and Facebook.

2.2 million* viewers tuned into RTÉ’s Election 2024 results and news programming across the three days as RTÉ broadcast 30 hours of live television coverage.

On RTÉ Player, election results coverage and news content generated over 622,000 streams to date from 154 countries worldwide, including China, Venezuela, Mali and Kazakhstan.

Over 50 hours of live radio coverage was also delivered across RTÉ Radio 1 and RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta.
RTÉ co-produced over 15 hours of live Irish language election results coverage for TG4 in addition to regular Nuacht bulletins on RTÉ One.

RTÉ also continued its commitment to supporting the future development of Irish media and journalism with 50 third level journalism students from UL, DCU, University of Galway and Ballyfermot College of Further Education employed to work alongside RTÉ teams in count centres throughout the country, gaining first-hand experience and contributing to multi-platform coverage of the General Election.

Kevin Bakhurst, Director-General RTÉ said: “Providing quality coverage of the General Election across all platforms is central to RTÉ’s role as Ireland’s public service media organisation. It is a responsibility that RTÉ and teams across the organisation have shown their commitment to these past few weeks and over last weekend, with coverage from every count centre and every constituency across the country. RTÉ’s quality results coverage and analysis engaged huge audiences on every platform – across tv, radio, online and on social media – highlighting RTÉ’s commitment to serve as Ireland’s public service media”.

– ENDS – 

Date: Tuesday 3 December 2024.

Contact:
Sharon Brady, Senior Communications Manager, RTÉ, 087 685 8975, Sharon.Brady@rte.ie
Laura Fitzgerald, Communications Manager, RTÉ News & Current Affairs, Laura.Fitzgerald@rte.ie

Sources: 
Television viewing figures source – TAM Ireland / Nielsen TAM, Live + VOSDAL

Online figures source – Piano Analytics

*Election 2024 and News related programming combined registered a +1 minute reach figure of 2.2 million for Individuals RTÉ One & RTÉ One +1 (Sat & Sun broadcasts) and RTÉ2 & RTÉ2 +1 Exit Poll Special only (Friday)

RTÉ has announced The Walsh Sisters, a new six-part drama series based on celebrated Irish author Marian Keyes’ best-selling novels about a chaotic, dysfunctional but deeply loveable family of five sisters, a devout mother and a bemused father.

Set in their Dublin hometown, The Walsh Sisters follows the lives of Anna, Rachel, Maggie, Claire and Helen as they navigate the peaks and troughs of their late 20s and 30s. This is a sisterhood full of in-jokes, hand-me-down resentments and more than a few old wounds. But their DNA, history and shared love of power ballads keep the Walsh sisters together in the face of heartbreak, grief, addiction and parenthood.

The series is based on five of the Walsh Family novels by Marian Keyes, one of the most successful Irish novelists of all time, whose many accolades include being named the 2022 Author of the Year at the prestigious British Book Awards. Since her first novel was published in 1995, more than 39 million copies of Keyes’ books have been sold around the world, translated into 36 languages.

A multi-award-winning writing team has been signed to the project, consisting of Dublin-based screenwriter, author and actor Stefanie Preissner (Can’t Cope, Won’t Cope) and writer and executive producer Kefi Chadwick (Rivals; Death in Paradise). The Walsh Sisters will be directed by Ian Fitzgibbon and produced by award-winning indies Cuba Pictures, based in London, and Irish based Metropolitan Films International, in association with the BBC and Screen Ireland. Cineflix Rights is the exclusive worldwide distribution partner on the six-part series which has been pre-bought by the BBC for its viewers.

Marian Keyes said: “This is SO exciting!!!! I’m beside myself! I love the scripts; they’ve really kept the spirit of the books. It’s been almost impossible to keep this a secret and it’s a great feeling that the news is now out in the world.”

Stefanie Preissner said: “It was such an honour to be asked to adapt Marian’s amazing books. Rachel’s Holiday was the first book I ever bought with my own money, and she has lived in my heart since that day. The team at Cuba are a joy and the whole process has been gorgeous. I cannot wait for everyone to see the magic we are making”.

David Crean, Head of Drama at RTÉ said: “It’s beyond exciting to be able to announce the news that The Walsh Sisters is going into production. Marian Keyes is a much-loved author and Stephanie Preissner and Kefi Chadwick have brilliantly captured and re-imagined her world. It’s going to be a huge treat for audiences everywhere. I’m delighted to add this brilliant drama series to our slate for 2025 and beyond.”

Dixie Linder, CEO at Cuba Pictures said: “We are incredibly proud to bring The Walsh Sisters to life, working alongside such talented partners as RTÉ, BBC, Screen Ireland, Cineflix and Metropolitan. With the incomparable stories of Marian Keyes as our foundation, Stefanie Preissner and Kefi Chadwick have crafted a rich and heartfelt adaptation that captures the humour, resilience, and emotion at the heart of these beloved characters and with Ian Fitzgibbon at the helm as director, we can’t wait to share the series with everyone.”

The series will shoot in early 2025.

RTÉ Communications: Maureen Catterson

Mushroom Media: Cheryl Clarke

Notes to Editor
The executive producers are RTÉ’s head of drama, David Crean, and director of co-productions and acquisitions, Dermot Horan; Cuba Pictures’ joint CEOs Dixie Linder and Nick Marston; Metropolitan Films producer and director David McLoughlin; the BBC’s head of fiction acquisitions, Sue Deeks; and James Durie and Tom Misselbrook for Cineflix Rights.

About Cuba Pictures
Cuba Pictures is a BAFTA, Emmy, RTA, and BIFA-winning production company celebrated for high-profile TV and film projects. TV highlights include McMAFIA with James Norton (BBC One/AMC), based on Misha Glenny’s bestseller and winner of the 2019 International Emmy for Best Drama, Coalition (RTS Award for Best Single Drama), Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell starring Eddie Marsan and Bertie Carvel (multiple BAFTA-winner), and Paula with Denise Gough (BBC Two/RTE which one the IFTA for best screenplay).

Film credits include Boy A with Andrew Garfield (BAFTA-winning), Broken with Tim Roth and Cillian Murphy (including best film BIFA), The Ones Below with David Morrissey, and London Road with Olivia Colman and Tom Hardy and The Delinquent Season starring Cillian Murphy and Andrew Scott.

In collaboration with The National Theatre, Cuba produced 4 films including Romeo and Juliet with Jessie Buckley and Josh O’Connor (RTS-nominated) and Death of England: Face to Face (BAFTA/RTS-nominated). Most recently, Cuba produced The Chemistry of Death, an adaptation of Simon Beckett’s crime novels, which premiered on Paramount+ in 2023.

Currently Cuba are in production on The Rumour, an adaptation of Lesley Kara’s bestselling novel.

About Metropolitan Films International:

With more than 25 years of experience in film and television production, Metropolitan Films International, in association with its global network of partners, develops, produces and provides a comprehensive suite of production services to international film and television projects locating in Ireland.

Metropolitan’s numerous award-winning feature film co-productions include Martin McDonagh’s Oscar-nominated The Banshees of Inisherin, for Fox Searchlight, Disney’s Disenchanted, the sequel to 2007’s Enchanted; Ridley Scott’s The Last Duel, for Fox, starring Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Jodie Comer; Silver for Constantin Film & Amazon Studios and most recently Fifth Season’s & Lionsgate’s gripping political thriller Anniversary, starring Diane Lane, Kyle Chandler and Zoey Deutch.

Current projects in production include Wednesday Season 2 for MGM/Netflix; Harry Wild Season 4, for Acorn & ZDF starring Jane Seymour, Sanctuary Season 2 for AMC, and How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, Lisa McGee’s follow up to Derry Girls for Hat Trick & Netflix. Metropolitan has also produced a wide variety of critically acclaimed television series, including the award-winning Irish crime drama KIN seasons 1 & 2 for BRON Studios, AMC, RTÉ and Screen Ireland, acquired by BBC and Netflix, The Tourist 2, starring Jamie Dornan, for Two Brothers Pictures, BBC & All3Media, Vikings and Valhalla for MGM and Netflix, Penny Dreadful for Showtime; Greta, directed by Neil Jordan for Sidney Kimmel Entertainment and Universal, and Into The Badlands for AMC.

About Cineflix Rights

Cineflix Rights is the UK’s largest independent TV content distributor to broadcasters and streamers worldwide with a catalogue of standout scripted series and movies as well as must-watch, long-running factual brands.

Our scripted slate features the new crime drama Virdee, based on the best-selling books by A.A. Dhand, for BBC; the return of the international cult sensation with a Wynonna Earp: Vengeance special for Tubi; dystopian thriller Heart Attack for Fuji TV; and 2024 Séries Mania Official Selection, So Long, Marianne, inspired by the love story between Leonard Cohen and Marianne Ihlen. These new titles join returning seasons of International Emmy® Best Drama Award-winning espionage series Tehran for Apple TV+, Paramount+ Australia’s crime drama Last King of The Cross; Reginald the Vampire starring Spider-Man’s Jacob Batalon for SYFY US; Irvine Welsh’s Crime with Dougray Scott in his International Emmy® award-winning role for ITVX/BritBox, and Acorn TV’s cozy crime procedural Whitstable Pearl.

Entertaining the world since 2002, Cineflix Rights is based in London, and is part of the Cineflix Media group of companies.

About Marian Keyes

Marian Keyes is the multi-million copy, internationally bestselling author of some of the most widely loved, genre-defying novels of the past thirty years – such as Rachel’s Holiday, Anybody Out There and Grown Ups (Penguin Michael Joseph). She has amassed millions of fans around the world who are irresistibly drawn by her warmth and wit, fearless honesty, relatable characters and relationships, and sheer storytelling magic. Her books have explored some of the most challenging issues of our time, including addiction, immigration, depression, domestic violence and the Repeal the Eighth campaign.

Marian is a passionate champion of storytellers everywhere, playing an active role in encouraging the next generation of writers. She has been the chair of judges for the Comedy Women in Print prize, a sponsor of the Curtis Brown Creative Marian Keyes scholarship, and most ran her own hugely popular Instagram Live series bringing free creative writing courses to thousands of viewers.

Both critically acclaimed and commercially unstoppable, Marian’s sixteenth novel, My Favourite Mistake – was an immediate No. 1 bestseller in five global territories: UK, Ireland, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand, a No. 1 Audible bestseller and one of Audible’s audiobooks of the year – My Favourite Mistake will be published in paperback on 13th February 2025. In addition to her novels, Marian has written two collections of journalism, one of which was used as the inspiration of her hit BBC Radio 4 show Between Ourselves. She also co-presents the popular BBC Radio 4 podcast Now You’re Asking with actress Tara Flynn, which has been praised by Guardian for its ‘warm-hearted joy’. Marian is based in Dublin.

RTÉ celebrates Irish culture through festive food and musical specials this Christmas

– Christmas in Kildare on Christmas Eve on RTÉ One, RTÉ Player and RTÉ lyric fm
– A wide and varied selection of music specials on RTÉ Radio 1 and RTÉ 2FM
– Culinary inspiration with a wide range of cooking specials on RTÉ Player

In the second of a week of Christmas programming announcements, RTÉ will indulge viewers in festive treats with a selection of Irish music specials and Irish culinary offerings with inspiration and the best tips to entertain guests this festive season. Marty Whelan and Celine Byrne will be hosting Christmas carols in Christmas in Kildare featuring some of the biggest names in Irish music including Paul Noonan from Bell X1, Lisa Hannigan, Kingfishr and Grammy Award winner, Rhiannon Giddens to name a few. RTÉ will also air some of the best music documentaries and radio features including Henry Mount Charles: A Lord in Slane, Nanci Griffith – From A Distance and David O’Doherty and his Dad do Jazz. Neven Maguire’s Neven’s Christmas at Cashel along with Rory O’Connell’s How to Cook Well at Christmas will feature as part of a feast of festive food specials on offer across RTÉ this Christmas season.

Christmas Carols in Kildare 

A musical delight this December, RTÉ invites audiences to join in a celebration of the season on Christmas Eve with a spectacular concert, Christmas in Kildare, hosted by soprano Celine Byrne and presenter Marty Whelan at 8.40pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ lyric fm, and RTÉ Player. Featuring the RTÉ Concert Orchestra alongside an extraordinary lineup of artists, set against the stunning backdrop of the historic St. Brigid’s Cathedral in the heart of Kildare, this a concert not to be missed. This year’s performers include May Kay, Paul Noonan of Bell X1, Lisa Hannigan, Méav Ní Mhaolchatha, and Colm Mac Con Iomaire. Also joining the celebrations are the 25-strong all-female choir Dulciana, rising stars Kingfishr, the Theodora Byrne ensemble, Grammy Award-winning artist Rhiannon Giddens and the afore mentioned world renowned soprano and another Kildare native, Celine Byrne.

Music Specials on RTÉ Radio 1 and 2FM

On RTÉ Radio 1 this December, kick-start the festive listening with Around The World at Christmas with Loah at 8pm on Christmas Eve.

To get the Christmas Day festivities underway Christmas Miscellany will air at 9am offering a magical mix of words and music recorded in early December at an annual event at the National Concert Hall with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, featuring special guests.

David O’Doherty and his dad will bring listeners on a relaxing jazz journey as they reminisce by a grand piano at 5pm on Christmas Day in David O’Doherty and his Dad do Jazz.  

Acclaimed Irish songwriter Oisin Leech will take listeners on a lyrical journey with tunes for the heart and soul in a Christmas Caravan Radio Special from 6pm.

Finishing off Christmas Day and Stephen’s Day – with interviews before worldwide fame, directly after it and on through the 90s right up to a couple from the past four years, Dave Fanning will deep-dive into the incredible career and life of one of Ireland’s most important artists, Sinéad O’Connor in Dave and Sinéad from 7pm.

As the year draws to a close, a new series, Routes, will ask the simple but profound question, ‘How did I get here?’ Each episode will weave together the meandering adventures and musical biography of a special guest starting with Rick Epping, originally from Southern California who decided to settle in the quiet south Sligo townland of Carrickbanaghar. Tune in on New Year’s Eve at 12pm on RTÉ Radio 1.

Ringing in the New Year, Louise Duffy will host Damien Dempsey in a Studio 8 Session at 12pm.

And on 2FM this Christmas Day catch-up on all of the biggest and best music and entertainment stories of the year with Lottie Ryan and Conor Behan.

Across the festive season 2FM will have celebrity takeovers where some well-known names in Irish entertainment will be handed control of the Christmas playlist. First up is Chubby Cat followed by Davina Devine.

The legendary 2FM Christmas Quiz will air on St. Stephen’s Day where presenters will be pitted against each other to see who comes out victorious and has bragging rights for the next 12 months.

Music on RTÉ lyric fm

Lorcan Murray and RTÉ lyric fm will be bringing the Christmas cheer on Christmas Eve with Lorcan Murray’s Classic Drive from 4pm. Aedín Gormley will have an hour long special of her favourite mellow seasonal music in Oíche Chiúin With Aedín Gormley from 8pm.

Marty in the Morning will be waking up listeners on Christmas morning, with a feast of festive tunes, carols and some of his best Christmas cracker jokes from 8am. Tune in to Centuries Of Christmas With Vlad Smishkewych with a millennium of music for this special festive day from 10am. Paul Herriott will bring us a playlist of Christmas music from around the world with Christmas Around The World With Paul Herriott from 7pm. Finally, George Hamiliton will be stepping in for The Full Score with Liz Nolan from 1pm on St. Stephen’s Day, bringing listeners a Christmas Concert from La Scala Orchestra and Chorus with Daniel Harding conducting Kirill Gerstein, piano for Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy.

Music Documentaries 
Finally, to round out the musical offering this festive season, RTÉ will be showcasing an exciting selection of documentaries with Henry Mount Charles: A Lord in Slane on Friday 27th of December, Nanci Griffith – From A Distance on Sunday 29th of December and The Great Pretenders on Monday 30th of December – all available on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.

Henry Mount Charles – A Lord in Slane looks at Lord Henry Mount Charles, the bankrupt estate he inherited and a music festival that would change the world of Irish entertainment forever. The documentary looks at how it all came at a cost to Lord Mount Charles’ health and marriage which saw him spiral into the depths of alcoholism. Now in recovery he faces another battle with lung cancer.

Nanci Griffith – From A Distance follows the story Nanci Griffith who arrived in Ireland in 1987, and within a year, the country and its people had taken her to heart, making her the biggest-selling female artist of the day. This documentary hears from Emmylou Harris, Lyle Lovett, Dolores Keane, Mary Black, and those who knew her best as they search for Nanci Griffith’s life and times – from a distance.

The Great Pretenders explores the vibrant and increasingly popular tribute band scene in Ireland from the perspective of the musicians and their fans as they try to replicate the sound and the look of music legends. While some of these tribute bands have made music their full-time commitment, others do it for fun and for the thrill of being on stage in front of a live audience.

Culinary Specials 
Viewers will be spoilt for choice with new Christmas specials from some of Ireland’s top home-chefs, Mark Moriarty, Rory O’Connell and Neven Maguire.

Join Neven Maguire on Tuesday 3rd and 10th of December, in a two-part special as he takes viewers to Tipperary’s Cashel Palace Hotel in Neven’s Christmas at Cashel. In part one, Neven joins Head Chef Stefan McEnteer in the hotel’s Bishop’s Buttery restaurant where they prepare a salmon and trout wreath, a traditional baked ham, and a ham terrine. In part two, Neven meets Master Butcher Una O’Dwyer and prepares a crab gratin, turkey roulade and pavlova. He also chats to World Champion trainer Aidan O’Brien at Ballydoyle Racing stables.

Rory O’Connell is back with another Yuletide offering in How to Cook Well at Christmas, airing on Sunday December 22nd at 7.30pm and Monday December 23rd at 7pm. Rory will be sharing festive recipes and creative cooking tips to help make cooking over the holiday period a stress free and enjoyable experience. In the first of these two specials, Rory prepares a salad of roast butternut squash with chickpeas and salmoriglio and follows this with savoury turkey and ham, bread and butter pudding, and a chocolate and pear flan. In the second special, Rory prepares a choux pastry and choux rings with smoked trout and almonds, a three cheese mille feuille with cranberries and a very seasonal Christmas ice-cream with whiskey-soaked prunes, served in an ice bowl.

At 6.30pm on Monday 23rd of December Mark Moriarty will be sharing his tips and tricks for a stress-free 3-course meal in a delectable Off Duty Chef Christmas Special. Mark invites a group of friends to road-test his festive menu ahead of the big day, ensuring everything runs seamlessly when it matters most. From French onion soup to sticky soy-glazed ham and even a vegetarian glazed and studded swede – Mark has all bases covered this Christmas.

Viewers can also find culinary inspiration with a wide range of cooking specials on the RTÉ Player, including Neven’s Christmas at Adare, Neven’s Christmas at Muckross Traditional Farm, Donal’s Feasts, Fasts and Festivals and How to Cook Well at Christmas with Rory O’Donnell. 

Find the full selection of festive treats on RTÉ this Christmas. 

-ENDS-

For more information:
Adam Thibault, RTÉ Press Officer | adam.thibault@rte.ie
Maureen Catterson, RTÉ Communications Manager, TV, Radio and Online | maureen.catterson@rte.ie

RTÉ 2FM has today announced the eagerly anticipated list of 2FM Rising Artists for 2025. Chosen each year by a panel of experts, the class of 2025 are Amble, Annie-Dog, BOLD LOVE, CamrinWatsin, Celaviedmai, Cliffords, ESSIRAY, F3miii, Fortúne Igiebor and Pastiche.

All ten selection artists were announced today on The Tracy Clifford Show and 2FM will champion them all through the next year with particular focus on the acts unveiling exclusive new music and interviews during Rising Week which takes place from Monday 2nd December to Sunday 8th December.

Adam Fogarty, Director of Music at RTÉ 2FM said: “2FM is delighted to announce our 2FM Rising list for 2025. Now in its 8th year (since its inception in 2018) our ambition is to continue to build on 2FM’s rich history of supporting Irish artists and music. Building on the legacy of 2FM Rising – that in recent years has brought you acts such as Dermot Kennedy, Denise Chaila, For Those I Love, Fontaines DC, Jafaris, Pillow Queens, Kojaque, Biig Piig, Monjola, Gemma Dunleavy, Sello, Aby Coulibaly, Chubby Cat, Jordan Adetunji, New Dad, 49th & Main and many more – we remain committed to bringing our audiences exciting new Irish acts that are helping shape the future of Irish music. We’re very excited for another great year in Irish music and to bring 2FM Rising to audiences in 2025.” 

Previous 2FM Rising artists also include Lyra, The Murder Capital and Wild Youth. For details on the all of this year’s artists visit: www.rte.ie/2fmrising

Director of Marketing & Membership Development with IMRO, Keith Johnson added: “IMRO is delighted to once again partner with RTÉ 2FM Rising to support Ireland’s next generation of musical talent. The Rising initiative has become a vital springboard for artists, offering them the resources and exposure needed to reach new audiences. In 2025, we’re excited to see these incredible songwriters and musicians bring their unique sounds to listeners across Ireland and beyond.” 

ENDS 

Date: 02/12/2023

RTÉ Communications:  Sarah Neville

About the 2025 2FM Rising Acts 2025: 

Amble 

In the summer of 2023, the Irish folk trio, Amble – Longford’s Ross McNerney, Leitrim’s Robbie Cunningham and Sligo’s Oisin McCaffrey – had known each other for what the Irish call a ‘wet day’ when a phone call from Los Angeles changed their lives. They weren’t to know it then, but their day jobs (respectively, a secondary school teacher, a primary school teacher, and a data scientist) were soon to end. Amble jumped from relative obscurity to signing to a major label. Amble by name, amble by nature? You only have to hear the music to appreciate just how accurate this is. Amble’s tunes conjure up truisms instead of clichés: Across their newly released EP, The Commons, tracks such as latest singles “Little White Chapel” “The Commons,” plus “Thoughts Flood Back to You,” “One Man’s Love,” and “Luke the Navigator” present indelible marks of deft rural-related storytelling and a musicality that is equally traditional and current.

Annie-Dog 

Influenced by a plethora of fellow idiosyncratic artists including Dean Blunt, Imogen Heap, and Alex G, Annie-Dog self-produces her own material and crafts bittersweet shapeshifting pop tracks that occupy a world somewhere between PinkPantheress and Grimes. Annie-Dog released her self-titled debut EP in 2024 via Leeds indie-label, “Dance to the Radio”, and is set to share her sophomore EP, “15”, in February 2025. Although her debut track, “The Pressures of the Heart”, only came out earlier this year, she has already been put on the bill for the likes of Ireland Music Week, Pitchfork Music Festival, Dot to Dot, Live at Leeds, and Other Voices.

BOLD LOVE 

The band made up of Cian Ó’Maonlaí (lead vocals), Jack Cody (guitar/vocals), Megan Nic Ruairí (vocals, keys/synth), Dan Aherne (bass), Anton Shovlin (drums), and Adam Curtis (lead guitar) have been gathering significant momentum having been tipped by the likes of Hot Press in their Hot for 2024, Whelan’s Ones To Watch, and RTÉ Recommends, for their widescreen indie-pop inflected alt-rock live sound. This culminated in a scintillating show at the annual Ireland Music Week showcase festival and one of three acts chosen by Dermot Kennedy for his inaugural Misneach festival. Having sold-out numerous early headline shows around Dublin at staple venues such as The Workman’s Club and The Grand Social, as well as playing major festivals such as Electric Picnic and Other Voices, the band will mad their first headline appearance in London at Old Blue Last on 19th November.

CamrinWatsin 

Cameron Watson first had success with a take on Jorja Smith’s hit “Blue Lights” which garnered over 120,000 plays on TikTok and was No.1 on Soundcloud New and Hot Charts in Ireland and England. Following multiple releases gaining success and a busy gig schedule, Camrin caught the eye of Sony label Robots & Humans, signing a record deal. The success keeps on rolling for CamrinWatsin as he collaborated with BL3SS to release the massive track “Kisses” featuring bbyclose. The track, as of the end of 2024, amassed 100milllion streams, entering the Top 5 in the Irish charts and the Top 5 of the UK singles chart. Camrin’s latest release on Sony “Blew My Life Up” has just dropped and with exciting collaborations and further releases ahead, CamrinWatsin continues to climb to the very top.

Celaviedmai

Celaviedmai has emerged as one of the most thrilling names in the Irish music scene. Her career reached new heights in 2023 with significant achievements such as opening for Kelis, being recognised as a Breakthrough Artist by GAY TIMES and Coca Cola, and performing live for the first time at UK festivals and in Prague and Brussels. This year, she released her most successful project, ‘ISSA NEW ERA!’, which received widespread praise, televised performances, headlined small festivals and was selected for Ireland Music Week 2024. Hailing from Galway, Celaviedmai’s music is revered for its genre-blending within urban contemporary music. Her lyrics include English, French, and Irish, paying homage to her Ivory Coast heritage. Mai’s live performances distinguish her from most rappers, with a full band, live vocals and unbelievable connection with the audience.

Cliffords 

After forming in a garage in Cork as teenagers, Cliffords have emerged as an electrifying act bursting out of the Irish scene. The band built their dynamic indie-rock sound by relentlessly playing venues across Cork, captivating audiences with their emotional and cathartic performances. Cliffords went on to receive widespread recognition after the release of their critically acclaimed debut EP ‘Strawberry Scented’, which came out in April this year. Following this release the band went on to play numerous venues across Ireland and the UK,including a packed-out performance at Electric Picnic’s ‘3 Stage’, solidifying Cliffords as a live experience which is not to be overlooked

ESSIRAY 

ESSIRAY is an Irish singer, songwriter, and producer known for her dynamic electronic pop music. She combines fast-paced breakbeats with layered vocals and harmonies, creating a vocal-led sound that feels both energising and calming. Rooted in storytelling, her music explores unique soundscapes that push genre boundaries. Having started her music career as an opera singer, ESSIRAY is no stranger to experimentation and thinking outside the box when it comes to her music-making. This year, she curated an all-female electronic night at Whelan’s, showcasing artists who blend electronic music with other genres. Since her debut two years ago, ESSIRAY has been recognised as “The Future of Irish Music” by District Magazine, won the Goldeneire Songwriting Competition, and performed at festivals such as Beyond the Pale and Forbidden Fruit. She showcased her work at Ireland Music Week 2023 and has supported acts like the South African electronic duo Goldfish at The Grand Social in Dublin and LA-based songwriter Miya Folick. Her work has also been featured on major Spotify playlists, including New Music Friday UK and Fresh Finds: Pop. Hot Press describes ESSIRAY as “a breath of fresh air.”

F3miii  

Dublin-based producer and vocalist F3miii is known for his melodic voice and vibrant chords. Music has always been F3miii’s passion and he got his start singing in a gospel choir. The talented artist debuted his career with the release of ‘Beautiful’ on SoundCloud, this tune elevated him to where he is today with over 2 million streams on his last 3 singles collectively. F3miii has collaborated with amazing artists like KhakiKid, Pat Lagoon, Monjola, and Bricknasty. The vocalist finds solace in creating music about love and heartbreak that people can relate to. F3miii was chosen as a District Magazine Alumni 2024 and showcasing artist at Ireland Music Week in 2022. No stranger to live crowds, F3miii’s has performed at Electric Pinic, Forbidden Fruit festival, Cork Jazz Festival. The emerging artist also sold out his headline shows in London 2024 and Dublin 2022 and 2024.

Fortúne Igiebor 

Fortúne Igiebor is a rising star in Irish hip-hop, praised not just for his musical talent but for his authentic approach to artistry. Known countrywide for his eccentric genius, combining heartfelt lyricism with bold, genre-blending production. Fortúne’s rapid rise includes sold-out shows, a documentary debut, and two #1 hits in 2023 alone, making him a standout voice in the Irish music community. His fearless approach and public persona make Fortúne an artist who captivates and inspires – a true breath of fresh air in Irish music.

Pastiche  

Pastiche is undeniably transforming the Irish music landscape with her captivating pop sound. With a sonic blend reminiscent of Dua Lipa and Chappell Roan, she masterfully fuses classic electronic dark pop with vibrant 80s influences, all delivered through her sharp and witty lyrics.Her debut headline show at Whelan’s sold out in an astonishing 72 hours, a clear indicator of her surging  popularity. Having showcased at Ireland Music Week, Iceland Airwaves and Primavera Pro, she is an export-ready star. Audiences have been mesmerised by her larger-than-life persona at venues like The 3Olympia and Collins Barracks. Additionally, she has secured spots at major Irish festivals, including Sea Sessions, Indiependence, SoFFt Nights, and Dublin’s Pride Festival.

Her debut EP, Freak Show Symphony, achieved remarkable success, garnering millions of radio impacts, hundreds of thousands of streams, and tens of thousands of radio plays. Following that, she dazzled listeners with “Dizzy” and “Abandon The Planet,” continuing to rack up millions more radio impacts and thousands of streams. With her consistent success, Pastiche firmly establishes herself as one of Ireland’s most promising independent pop writers, ready to take the world by storm.

Watch our promo: RTÉ Supporting the Arts | What’s on – YouTube

This December, RTÉ is delighted to support Library Ireland Week, with events taking place across the country from 1^st-7^th December. In addition, the RTÉ Supporting the Arts scheme will support 15 other arts and cultural events nationwide, spanning theatre, film, art, music, opera, ballet, festivals, and more.

Several music, dance and theatre events will tour the country this month, including Nutcracker Sweeties, which will bring audiences on a magical journey full of Christmas cheer. The Irish Baroque Orchestra will perform their annual production of Handel’s Messiah and Bach’s Christmas Oratorio celebrating the nativity story with performances in Dublin, Wexford, and Kilkenny. While Drogheda Classical Music Concert Series in Louth, will bring some of the world’s most renowned musicians to Ireland’s north-east.

In Dublin, the Royal Irish Academy of Music’s Wigmore Series will host an array of music performances, the Irish National Youth Ballet Company will present The Nutcracker in Trinity College, while Sing for Simon with the RTÉ Orchestra and Special Guests will be a magical night of heartfelt music and festive cheer at the Helix.

Dublin’s Abbey Theatre presents Spreading the News, a celebration of 120 years of the National Theatre of Ireland, in partnership with RTÉ. There is also lots more theatre to enjoy with James Joyce’s The Dead continuing at the Museum of Literature Ireland, while The Ark will present The Giggler Treatment, a marvellous, mischievous new musical based on the novel by Roddy Doyle for children and grown-ups alike. The Borrowers is at the Gate Theatre. Based on Mary Norton’s beloved adventure novels, it follows the fortunes of the tiny Clock family.

Events supported by the RTÉ Supporting the Arts scheme this December:

Nationwide We are Music Generation | www.musicgeneration.ie

Nationwide Irish National Opera | www.irishnationalopera.ie

Dublin The Dead @ Museum of Literature Ireland | www.anuproductions.ie

Nationwide Nutcracker Sweeties | www.balletireland.ie/whats-on/nutcracker-sweeties-2024

Dublin Wigmore Series Dublin | www.riam.ie/whats-on?category=581

Dublin The Giggler Treatment | www.ark.ie/events/view/the-giggler-treatment-2024

Dublin The Borrowers | www.gatetheatre.ie/production/the-borrowers/

Kilkenny and Cork Marble City Music Festival | www.marblecitymusicfestival.com

Dublin Dublin Art Book Fair | www.templebargallery.com/exhibitions/dublin-art-book-fair-2024

Wexford and Dublin Handel’s ‘Messiah’ | www.irishbaroqueorchestra.com/whatson/

Nationwide Library Ireland Week | www.libraryirelandweek.ie

Dublin Sing for Simon With RTÉ Orchestra and Special Guests | www.thehelix.ie/what-s-on/all-events/sing-for-simon-2024-with-the-rte-concert-orchestra

Dublin The Nutcracker | www.inybco.com/upcoming-productions/

Dublin Spreading the News – 120 Year Celebration of the Abbey Theatre | www.abbeytheatre.ie

Dublin and Kilkenny Bach’s ‘Christmas Oratorio’ | www.irishbaroqueorchestra.com/whatson/bach’s-christmas-oratorio

Louth Drogheda Classical Music 24/25 Series | www.droghedaclassicalmusic.com

Every year, RTÉ supports 170 arts and cultural events all over Ireland through the RTÉ Supporting the Arts scheme. Spanning film, music, dance, opera, festivals, literature, theatre and exhibitions, and with dedicated promotion on RTÉ’s television, radio and digital services, and extensive support across RTÉ’s social channels, the RTÉ Supporting the Arts scheme is a lifeline to Ireland’s creative and cultural sectors.

To find out more information about RTÉ Supporting the Arts and to apply visit
About RTÉ Supporting the Arts – About RTÉ (rte.ie)

Find out what’s happening near you on www.rte.ie/culture

Brand new The Young Offenders dropping on RTÉ Player
Joe Duffy celebrates 50 years from Grafton Street on RTÉ Radio 1
Amy Huberman and Kaleigh Trappe join Storybud
Gavin and Stacey: The Finale on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player

In the first of a week full of Christmas announcements, RTÉ is bringing laughter to living rooms across Ireland this festive season with a sparkling line-up of comedy and entertainment live and on demand. From brand-new series featuring Ireland’s top talent to beloved classics that guarantee giggles for the whole family, RTÉ promises a merry season of cheer. Starting tomorrow, fans can stream the brand-new season of The Young Offenders exclusively on RTÉ Player. The Christmas schedule will also include a highly anticipated one off brand-new special of Gavin and Stacey, ensuring plenty of laughs.

The season will showcase a slate of original Irish programming, including Callan Kicks the Year, The 2 Johnnies Late Night Lock In, Full Irish Hidden Camera Show, and the NYE Late Late Show Special, alongside exciting new content for Ireland’s youngest viewers with the likes of Kabin Crew’s Christmas Speical and Storybud.

The Young Offenders

Dropping exclusively on RTÉ Player on December 3, the highly anticipated new season of The Young Offenders promises plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments as audiences catch up with Conor, Jock, and the gang. As time has passed, the friends must navigate shifting relationships and face the consequences of landing on the wrong side of the law once again, all delivered with the show’s signature mix of humour and heart. Viewers can look forward to a special festive treat as The Young Offenders Xmas airs on RTÉ One over the Christmas period, bringing the beloved characters to television for a festive adventure packed with charm and comedy.

Good Boy

Good Boy is a new RTÉ Player original sitcom about one man’s struggle in making a career in comedy while wrestling with the emotional and frequently hysterical journey of trying to get an ADHD diagnosis. Told from the perspective of Good Boy (Tony Cantwell) – a lost, thirty-something working in a job he hates while he’s trying everything under the sun to get his comedy career going. He tries jumping on every single Instagram, TikTok and Facebook trend in search of the elusive viral hit with no luck.

Callan Kicks the Year

The annual tradition returns with a satirical look back on Irish and international events of the year, but in a brand new two-part festive mini-series. From a Trump load of elections to portals, bike sheds, spies and Swifties, Callan Kicks the Year dips through all the maddest moments in Ireland and abroad on RTÉ One this Christmas.

Late Late Show New Year’s Eve Special

New Year’s Eve celebrations start right here! Join your Late Late host Patrick Kielty as he kicks off the New Year’s celebrations from a star-studded studio filled with plenty of surprises and music performances you won’t want to miss.

With something for everyone, Patrick will be celebrating the year that’s gone by with Olympians Charlene Maudsley, Mona McSharry and Paralympian Orla Comerford, music from the RTÉ Concert Orchestra, The Undertones and Picture This; and Patrick will be marking musical anniversaries with James Blunt and throwing it forward to 2025 with rising stars Clinton Liberty, Alisha Weir and Justine Stafford to name a few.

The Dry

The Dry stars Roisin Gallagher as Shiv Sheridan who returns to Dublin after years of partying in London, sober and full of good intentions – but being back with her family makes staying on ‘the dry’ much harder than she expected. As Shiv tries to navigate this new phase of her life, so must her family…and they all have issues they don’t want to face. Series 1 and 2 are available on RTÉ Player.

Joe Duffy Live from Grafton Street

This year, it will be 50 years since RTÉ Radio 1 first broadcast live on the morning of Christmas Eve from Grafton Street. And over the years, there have been some wonderful stories. This year, Eurovision legend Johnny Logan will perform. Listeners can also expect plenty more Irish artists and some laughs along the way. Of course, Brendan O’Carroll will be on hand with co-compere duties.

Storybud

Storybud is back with a brand new series featuring some legendary messers reading us tall tales mixed with animation to truly entertain our youngest viewers. Newcomers Amy Huberman, Kayleigh Trappe, Demi Isaac Oviawe and Carl Mullan join Storybud veterans Jason Byrne and Tara Lynne O’Neill to regale us with ‘totally true’ tales about some of our most loved celebrities, sports-stars and Presidents … well … just one President: Michael D Higgins. Series four of Storybud has something for everyone and is available on RTÉ Jnr and RTÉ Player on your big and small screens. And that’s the Storybud.

Kabin Crew’s Christmas Special

Celebrate Christmas with Cork City’s young rap collective the Kabin Crew. 2024 was an amazing year for the Kabin Crew, their hit song The Spark went viral and amassed over 2 BILLION plays on social media.  Now to cap off an amazing year they have made their very own Christmas Special. As well as featuring brand new songs and a special Christmas music video, Kabin Crew’s  Christmas Special will give viewers a chance to get to know the members of the crew more.  See where all the magic happens in the Kabin Studio in Knocknaheeny on the Northside of Cork City and find out what the Kabin Crew members are getting up to at Christmas time!

Full Irish Hidden Camera Show Best Bits

It’s the best of the Full Irish Hidden Camera Show. Doireann, Donncha and Carl take us back to some of their favourite pranks from the series. Everything was recorded on hidden cameras. But how did people react when they realised they’d been set up? It’s fun for all the family on the best of the Full Irish Hidden Camera Show!

The 2 Johnnies Late Night Lock In – Best Bits

Johnny B and Johnny Smacks look back on some of the best parts from series two of The 2 Johnnies Late Night Lock In which featured chats, music, comedy and craic from guests including Lyra, Pat Shortt, Dáithí O Sé, Anna Geary, Garron Noone, Gearóid Farrelly and Enya Martin.

Mrs Brown’s Boy

Across the Christmas period, Mrs Brown’s Boys Christmas Specials will be available to view on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. Comedy starring Brendan O’Carroll as loud-mouthed Irish matriarch Agnes Brown, whose favourite pastime is meddling in the lives of her six children.

Gavin and Stacey

Brand new Gavin and Stacey: The Finale will be available on RTÉ this Christmas. The series follows the heartwarming and hilarious story of a long-distance romance between Gavin, from Essex, and Stacey, from Wales, as they navigate love, family, and quirky friends. Packed with witty humour and memorable characters, including the unforgettable Smithy and Nessa, the series has become a cult classic. The Finale is set five years since we left Nessa down on one knee declaring her love. And a lot has happened since then. All episodes of Gavin and Stacey are also available to stream on RTÉ Player, including the Gavin and Stacey Christmas Special.

Father Ted

Father Ted follows the hilarious misadventures of three priests—Father Ted Crilly, the bumbling Father Dougal, and the irritable Father Jack—living together on the fictional Craggy Island. Fans can relive all the series’ laughs as well as seasonal shenanigans in “A Christmassy Ted” on RTÉ Player. It’s a perfect addition to your festive viewing lineup.

Parks and Recreation

American satirical mocumentary following the absurd antics of Leslie Knope and her team of public officials as they pursue projects to make their city a better place. The boxset of Parks and Recreation is available to binge on RTÉ Player including all of the series Christmas episodes.

Frasier

Award winning US sitcom Frasier is available on RTÉ Player. Dr. Frasier Crane moves back to his hometown of Seattle, where he lives with his father, and works as a radio psychiatrist. Join Frasier as he navigates life in Seattle alongside his eccentric family and friends. Don’t miss the chance to revisit this classic series or discover it for the first time on RTÉ Player.

The Office UK

Set in the mundane world of a paper company, The Office hilariously captures the awkwardness, egos, and everyday absurdities of office life, with a cast of unforgettable characters. Now available to stream on RTÉ Player, viewers can enjoy the complete series along with its Christmas specials.

This Christmas, RTÉ is delivering a sleigh-load of laughter with its line-up of festive comedy and entertainment. Viewers can look forward to a merry mix of festive specials featuring premieres, classic boxsets and off the cuff entertainment, the ultimate tonic for a season of cheer and chuckles.

For more information contact:

Sharon Sorohan, RTÉ Communications, sharon.sorohan@rte.ie.
Maureen Catterson, RTÉ Communications Manager, maureen.catterson@rte.ie

Helping to change children’s lives for good:

Donations open for the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal 2024

For the last four years, the people of Ireland have donated in record numbers to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal, doing their part so that kids in every county across the island of Ireland can go on being kids.

In 2020, the nation was inspired to donate in unprecedented numbers by Saoirse Ruane from Kiltullagh Co Galway, who won the hearts of the nation with her appearance on The Late Late Toy Show. Saoirse inspired the official RTÉ Toy Show Appeal that followed, which has raised over €21 million for children’s charities to date.

Saoirse sadly passed away in March of this year, yet her enduring legacy continues with the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal. Tonight, Saoirse’s parents Roseanna and Ollie Ruane joined Late Late Show host Patrick Kielty to pay special tribute to Saoirse and, in recognition of her inspiring contribution, donations to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal have now opened one week ahead of the forthcoming Late Late Toy Show on December 6^th.

The public can donate now by going to www.rte.ie/toyshowappeal, or with the appeal’s official donation partner Revolut Pay.

In addition, in 2025 a grant award of up to €150,000 will be made in Saoirse’s name to a chosen charity. ‘The Saoirse Ruane Grant’ will issue as part of the 2025 appeal allocations, and can be used over 2 years.

Kevin Bakhurst, Director-General, RTÉ, says: “The RTÉ Toy Show Appeal is one of the most important things that we do as an organisation. We are so grateful for the support of our audience over the last four years, whose generosity has ensured that RTÉ can continue to make a positive difference to the lives of thousands of children, and their families across the island, north and south. I’m particularly pleased to see the announcement of The Saoirse Ruane Grant in honour of Saoirse, and that donations to the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal are opening a week earlier this year. Saoirse will be remembered as someone who made such a positive and lasting impact on us all. Her memory lives on through the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal and the many young lives that it transforms.”

Over the past three years 359 grants have been provided to 226 children’s charities across the island of Ireland. It is estimated that the Appeal has helped over 1,100,000 children and family members annually since its inception. The appeal is managed by Community Foundation Ireland. Now over 20 years in existence, Community Foundation Ireland works with individuals, families, companies, and other trusts and foundations to support a diverse range of not-for-profit organisations. Community Foundation Ireland is a registered charity, (Charities Regulator Number: 20044886) and is committed to the highest standards of trust and governance.

As well as donating via the official RTÉ Toy Show Appeal website, the public can also donate in-app with official donation partner Revolut Pay.

ENDS

Further Information: Jilly McDonough Press Officer | jilly.mcdonough@rte.ie

The Late Late Show is proudly sponsored by PTSB.

For more updates follow The Late Late Show online:
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TikTok: tiktok.com/@latelaterte
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Facebook: facebook.com/thelatelateshow
YouTube: youtube.com/@rtelatelateshow

Here is your host, Patrick Kielty!

Following his incredibly successful North American tour, Tommy Tiernan will chat to Patrick about gigging in the US during the presidential election and his love of travelling by tour bus. He’ll also talk about bringing his Tommedian show across Ireland and Europe over the coming months and who he’d like to see on the ninth season of his chat show next year.

Live at 10pm, just after polling stations close in the 2024 General Election, Patrick will be joined by two of the presenters of the Behind the Ballot podcast, Katie Hannon, David McCullagh and Jennifer Bray, Political Correspondent with The Irish Times live in studio to deliver and discuss the RTÉ, The Irish Times, TG4, Trinity College Dublin joint Exit Poll carried out by Ipsos B&A.

Roseanna and Ollie Ruane will join Patrick ahead of next week’s Late Late Toy Show. In 2020, when their daughter Saoirse was eight years old she appeared on The Late Late Toy Show and became the inspiration behind the RTÉ Toy Show Appeal, winning the hearts of the nation on the night. Saoirse passed away at the age of 12 in March of this year after a long battle with a rare form of cancer.

Tommy Bowe will be chatting about the launch of his brand-new skincare line Flow by Bowe, catching up with his former coach Joe Schmidt and looking ahead to Ireland v Australia this Saturday. He’ll also be reflecting on getting his start in rugby and life after professional sport.

Celebrating four decades of music, Galway singer Mary Coughlan will be in studio performing her hit ‘I’d Rather Go Blind’ ahead of the Irish conclusion of her 40^th Anniversary Tour next month.

The Late Late Show is proudly sponsored by PTSB.

-ENDS-

28 November 2024

Press Officer: Jilly McDonough

Notes to Editor:
For more updates follow The Late Late Show online:
Instagram @latelaterte
TikTok: tiktok.com/@latelaterte
X: @rtelatelateshow
Facebook: facebook.com/thelatelateshow
YouTube: youtube.com/@rtelatelateshow