Joe Duffy Delivers Emotional Farewell to New Liveline Host

UPDATE: Former Liveline host Joe Duffy delivered an emotional farewell to his successor, Kieran Cuddihy, during a surprise segment on The Late Late Show on October 20, 2023. Duffy’s heartfelt words come as Cuddihy prepares to take over the iconic RTE program, following Duffy’s retirement earlier this year.

In a poignant moment, Joe Duffy reached out to Cuddihy with advice that touched both the new host and the audience. “Kieran…don’t talk to Joe now just listen to Joe,” Duffy urged, emphasizing the challenges ahead. He added, “Remember the first 27 years are the hardest. If the phone isn’t ringing you’re doing something wrong and if it is ringing you’re doing something really wrong!”

Duffy praised Cuddihy, noting the positive feedback he had received from former colleagues at RTE. “You are brilliant… I’ve heard great feedback already about your enthusiasm, your ability, your intelligence, and by the way, your good looks,” he joked, adding, “the women think you are gorgeous as well.”

The emotional exchange highlighted the legacy of Liveline and its impact on Irish broadcasting. Cuddihy, visibly moved by Duffy’s encouragement, responded, “That is so nice… it’s amazing… moments like that they are surreal.”

This transition marks a significant moment in Irish media, as Duffy’s tenure shaped the show’s history and audience engagement. As Cuddihy prepares to step into the spotlight, viewers can expect a fresh yet familiar voice on RTE’s airwaves.

Tune in to Liveline for Cuddihy’s debut, as he aims to continue the tradition set by broadcasting legends like Gay Byrne and Pat Kenny. As the saying goes, “break a leg, auld pal!”

Stay updated for more developments as Cuddihy embarks on this new journey.