RTE star Ryan Tubridy could be set for a future in Aras an Uachtarain if he fancies the job of President – as Fianna Fail TD Willie O’Dea has hailed him as "a very talented guy".
Tubridy announced last week he was set to quit the Late Late Show, stepping down from his role as host in May. It has been mooted in Fianna Fail that the Dubliner could join Fianna Fail in a bid for the presidency when Michael D Higgins departs the top job.
Fianna Fail TD Willie O'Dea backed Ryan, telling us: “He’s obviously a very talented guy and Fianna Fail could do with all the talent it could get at the moment so obviously I would welcome him.”
READ MORE: Miriam O'Callaghan in major Late Late Show announcement as she pulls out of running to be host
It comes in the wake of Miriam O’Callaghan – who has also been tipped for the Aras – announcing she did not want Tubridy’s Late Late Show job.
In a lengthy statement on social media, the mum-of-eight said: “The Late Late Show is an incredible programme," she wrote. "It's not just the jewel in the crown of Irish broadcasting, it's also an institution stitched into the fabric of Irish life. Ryan has done a tremendous job of presenting it for the last 14 years.
"Although the speculation about me being one of the favourites to take over The Late Late Show is very flattering, that won't be happening as I'm not throwing my hat into the ring to be considered."
O'Callaghan went on to explain the reason why she's happy to stay put rather than nominate herself as a candidate for the Late Late gig.
"I love what I do too much on Prime Time to leave it," she insists, "and what we do in current affairs as a team really matters, and can actually change lives."
O'Callaghan did get an opportunity to present The Late Late Show temporarily during the Covid pandemic, making her the first female to host the show.
In her statement, O'Callaghan said: "I’ve been lucky enough to present the iconic Late Late Show twice, and I loved the experience. I wish whoever does go for the job the very best – it’s a brilliant opportunity and very exciting. I also wish my heartiest congratulations in advance to whoever gets it – what a joyous role, enjoy!"
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