Colm O’Mongáin Emerges as Leading Contender for RTE’s Liveline

The race to replace longtime RTE presenter Joe Duffy on the popular afternoon radio show, Liveline, has intensified as the pool of candidates narrows. Colm O’Mongáin, the current host of the weekend current affairs programme, The Saturday Show, is now regarded as the frontrunner to succeed Duffy, who announced his retirement earlier this summer.

Following Duffy’s unexpected departure, RTE opened applications for the prestigious position, attracting over 500 candidates. This overwhelming response highlights the show’s significance in Irish broadcasting and the interest it generates among potential hosts. As the selection process continued, several prominent names emerged, including Kieran Cuddihy, Katie Hannon, Sarah McInerney, Anna Daly, and Philip Boucher Hayes.

Cuddihy was initially seen as a strong contender for the role, particularly following his high-profile work on The Tonight Show. However, with his return to hosting duties for the new season, insiders suggest he is likely to remain at Virgin Media. This shift in focus has further solidified O’Mongáin’s position as the leading candidate for Liveline.

During the summer months, McInerney, Boucher Hayes, and Hannon each stepped in as temporary hosts, demonstrating their capability to engage the audience during Duffy’s absence. Additionally, popular presenter Brendan Courtney, who often fills in for Oliver Callan, has also been mentioned as a possible replacement, adding to the competitive mix.

As RTE continues to refine its shortlist, expectations are building for an announcement regarding the new Liveline presenter. With O’Mongáin emerging as the prime candidate, listeners may soon be familiar with the phrase “Talk to Colm,” marking a new chapter for the beloved radio program.

The decision is anticipated in the coming weeks, and it will signal a significant transition for RTE’s afternoon programming. The selection of a new presenter not only impacts the show’s dynamic but also reflects the evolving landscape of Irish media.