Co Down comedian Patrick Kielty has been confirmed as the new host of RTE's The Late Late Show taking over from current host Ryan Tubridy.
The Dundrum native has told of his excitement at landing the role "on one of the greatest jobs on television".
Kielty becomes the fourth presenter of the show for its 61st season next September after Ryan Tubridy announced in March that he was leaving the show.
Read more: Reality TV star hails NI as 'best golf trip he's ever been on'
Speaking to RTE, Patrick Kielty said: "I'm absolutely thrilled to be the next host of The Late Late Show.
"To follow in the footsteps of Gay, Pat and Ryan as the next custodian is a real honour and I can’t thank RTÉ enough for giving me the chance to be a part of the next chapter of such an iconic show.
"I’m also genuinely humbled to become part of Friday nights for so many Irish people, at home and around the world. I can’t wait to get started on one of the greatest jobs in television."
RTÉ's Director of Content Jim Jennings hailed Kielty saying the new host has big plans for the prime time Friday night show.
He said: "Patrick Kielty is undoubtedly one of Ireland's finest comedians, a fantastic presenter with a depth of experience, and a range of talents that will bring an exciting new dynamic to the show.
"Patrick's personality and passion is sure to connect with audiences and I look forward to it bursting on to screens in September.
"We have very definite ideas for the show already in the works and we’ll be busy behind the scenes shaping the series for launch. We’ll be back in August to tell you all about it".
Speaking about his decision to leave the longest-running live TV chat show in the world, Tubridy said: "It has been a privilege to host the national institution that is The Late Late Show for the last 14 years."
Tubridy will present his final Late Late on Friday 26 May on RTÉ One.
He will continue to present his radio show on weekday mornings from 9.00am - 10.00am on RTÉ Radio 1.
READ NEXT:
Liam Neeson tells Northern Ireland politicians to ‘get back to work’
Eamonn Holmes on feeling 'humiliated' during ongoing health battle
Jamie Dornan set to film new series of hit BBC show in Dublin
Liam Neeson on being given a 'James Bond ultimatum' by late wife
For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
