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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Entertainment
Roisin Butler & Clare McCarthy

RTE Late Late Show viewers torn over country music special as one left 'in tears'

Last night's RTE Late Late Show saw the annual Country Music Special with guests Daniel O'Donnell, Philomena Begley, Cliona Hagan and Nathan Carter joining Ryan Tubridy on the couch.

However, while fans of the genre and the studio audience were delighted with the entertainment, the show left viewers divided.

The episode paid tribute to Big Tom, Ireland's original leading country music star. And teenager Caillin Joe, who gained traction after performing on the Late Late Toy Show, also came back to perform in front of the studio audience.

READ MORE: RTE Late Late Show viewers shocked at Philomena Begley's saucy comment to Nathan Carter

Ryan Tubridy paid tribute to the musical special ahead of its broadcast, admitting that he would miss hosting the annual ritual upon his departure from the show. He also revealed that he had made many friends on the country music scene thanks to the yearly episode.

Some viewers shared Ryan's enthusiasm for country music and praised the special show online.

One person said they were left "in tears" after country singer Margo paid tribute to Big Tom after her musical talents were recognised on the show.

The viewer wrote: "Margo dedicating her Irish music award / hall of fame to Big Tom has me in floods of tears. A friendship and love that lasted a lifetime."

However, some viewers were not left impressed as they argued that it was clear that Ryan was not the biggest fan of country music and described the episode as "cringey".

Nonetheless, others defended the music genre following several jibes on Twitter. One person described country music as a "big industry" in Ireland with a lot of potential.

The person wrote: "It provides massive employment; and it provides massive happiness. Am saying this as a very late convert to country music."

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