RTE Confirms New Liveline Presenter Update After Duffy’s Exit

BREAKING: RTE has just announced they are in the process of selecting a new presenter for the iconic Liveline show following the retirement of Joe Duffy in June 2023. The search for Duffy’s replacement is heating up, with several prominent names emerging as contenders.

As of now, RTE has not finalized the new host, but they confirmed in a statement that they “look forward to announcing the new Liveline presenter in the coming weeks.” The show continues to air regularly with Philip Boucher-Hayes and Katie Hannon stepping in during this transitional phase.

Among the potential candidates, Anna Daly, a well-known broadcaster, has expressed her interest in the role. She stated, “I’d imagine there’s stiff competition going on, but listen, I’ve a lot of live TV and now radio experience, so why not?” Her enthusiasm is palpable as she aims to join the ranks of the program that has captured the hearts of listeners.

Additionally, Dermot Whelan, a comedian and former Today FM host, has emerged as a “strong contender” to take over the show. Currently, Ladbrokes has set his odds at 5/1, following his successful fill-in stint on Radio 1. Whelan left Today FM in 2023 to focus on his wellness career but has recently made a notable return to radio, impressing RTE executives with his performance.

In a significant shake-up at RTE, Claire Byrne is set to depart from the station, reportedly transitioning to Newstalk. In her place, David McCullagh will take over the Today slot on Radio 1 starting November 3, 2023. RTE confirmed that McCullagh will continue to present the Six One News until the end of October, marking a pivotal change in the station’s lineup.

As RTE navigates this period of transition, the anticipation surrounding the new Liveline presenter grows. Fans are eager to see who will step into the shoes of Joe Duffy, a figure synonymous with the show for years. With the public’s interest piqued, the forthcoming announcement promises to be one of the most discussed developments in Irish radio.

Stay tuned for updates as the search for the new voice of Liveline unfolds.