Late Late Toy Show Celebrates 50 Years with Star-Studded Spectacle

UPDATE: The 50th anniversary of the Late Late Toy Show aired last night, bringing a wave of festive joy and star-studded surprises. This year’s theme celebrated the beloved Dr. Seuss classic, The Grinch, captivating audiences across Ireland.

Host Patrick Kielty opened the show dressed as the Grinch, while acclaimed actor Liam Neeson provided the voiceover. Entertainment correspondent Melanie Finn described the atmosphere as “feel-good, festive fun,” leaving viewers eager to share the experience. The emotional highlights included special appearances from celebrities like Lewis Capaldi and CMAT.

One of the most impactful moments featured two young friends, Declan and Keelan, who bravely discussed Keelan’s tics and Tourette’s live on air. Finn noted this segment as the “highlight of the night,” especially when football legend Roy Keane joined them on stage. She praised their courage, stating, “The courage it takes to go on something like that, knowing you’re going to be watched by possibly upwards of one million viewers,” resonated deeply with the audience.

Journalist Niamh O’Reilly celebrated Declan and Keelan as “a more positive example of masculinity,” calling their moment “the moment of the night.” Both Finn and O’Reilly commended Kielty’s calm hosting style, which allowed the young guests to take center stage, emphasizing his experience as a live performer.

Despite his success, Kielty admitted to still feeling nervous before the show, expressing, “The day you get comfortable in the Late Late Toy Show is the day you know you’re going to die absolutely on your face.” As he prepares to close his three-year hosting tenure next year, he remains hopeful about his future in broadcasting, stating, “You just never know what’s around the corner for you in life,” leaving fans speculating about a potential contract renewal.

The Toy Show continues to be a major revenue generator for RTÉ, with advertising packages reportedly costing up to €89,000 and overall commercial revenue estimated at close to half a million euro. Finn remarked, “It’s one of the few things we sit down as a nation and watch together,” highlighting its cultural significance.

O’Reilly noted a shift in the Toy Show’s focus over the years, joking, “My children are six and nine, Santa’s already working on what they want.” However, she acknowledged that this year’s show offered “a lot more focus on toys,” reminiscent of classic Toy Shows under previous hosts Gay Byrne and Pat Kenny.

This year’s Late Late Toy Show not only celebrated its rich history but also showcased the courage and creativity of the next generation, ensuring its legacy continues for years to come. Fans are already buzzing about what next year’s milestone will bring.