The return of Gay Byrne - in hologram form - to The Late Late Show can't be ruled out, according to technology itself.
Artificial Intelligence has become a major topic of conversation in recent times with many voicing concerns about potential dangers to humanity itself.
Closer to home, the identity of the next Late Late Show host has become an ongoing talking point with few outside the halls of RTE certain about who it could be... or what it could be.
READ MORE: Ex-RTE star believes Patrick Kielty is not a 'done deal' for Late Late Show
So we combined both - and asked artificial intelligence chatbot ChatGPT for its take on the biggest job in Irish television.
We began by asking if it considered current bookies favourite Patrick Kielty to be a good contender and while it was supportive of the idea, it was less confident that his famous wife Cat Deeley should join him as co-host.
ChatGPT said: "Patrick Kielty could potentially be a good host for the Late Late Show on RTE, depending on various factors.
"Kielty is known for his sharp wit, humour, and ability to engage with guests and audiences. He has experience hosting both entertainment and talk shows, which could be valuable in a late-night talk show format like the Late Late Show.
"Kielty has also been involved in discussing social and political issues, showcasing his ability to handle a range of topics.
"However, the choice of a host for a prominent show like the Late Late Show involves numerous considerations, including the preferences of the production team, network executives, and the audience.
"It's important to assess whether Kielty's style and approach align with the vision and goals of the show.
"Ultimately, the decision of whether Patrick Kielty or any other individual would be a good host for the Late Late Show would depend on a range of factors, including their experience, skillset, chemistry with guests, and the specific direction the producers want to take the show."
When asked if Cat Deeley would be a good - and first ever - Late Late co-host, it said: While Cat Deeley has shown her hosting abilities in entertainment and reality TV formats, it is important to note that the Late Late Show on RTE has a distinct talk show format, focusing on interviews, discussions, and current affairs.
"Considering Cat Deeley's background in hosting primarily entertainment-oriented programs, it might be necessary to assess her experience and capability to handle in-depth conversations on a wide range of topics.
"Talk shows like the Late Late Show often delve into societal, cultural, and political issues, requiring a host who can engage with guests and audiences on a deeper level.
"Without specific knowledge of Cat Deeley's aptitude for conducting in-depth interviews or discussing complex subjects, it is challenging to determine her suitability for hosting the Late Late Show.
"Ultimately, the decision would depend on factors such as her adaptability, knowledge of Irish culture and current affairs, and the opinions and preferences of the production team, network executives, and viewers."
When asked about whether past presenters could be an option - specifically Pat Kenny - ChatGPT warmed to the notion.
It said: "Since Pat Kenny has already hosted the Late Late Show in the past, his previous experience and familiarity with the format could be seen as an advantage.
"However, it's worth noting that the Late Late Show has had different hosts over the years, each bringing their unique style and approach to the role."
And - pushing technology to its limits - we asked if a hologram of Gay Byrne could present the Late Late Show at some point in the near future.
ChatGPT said: "In theory, it is technically possible to create a hologram of a person and have them present a show like the Late Late Show. Holographic technology has advanced in recent years, allowing for the creation of lifelike 3D images that can be projected onto a stage or set.
"However, there are several practical considerations and ethical implications to take into account. First, creating a hologram of someone would require a significant amount of data, including recordings, images, and potentially even voice samples, to generate a realistic representation.
"While some of Gay Byrne's past recordings could be used as a reference, it may not be possible to perfectly replicate his mannerisms, spontaneity, and ability to engage with guests.
"Moreover, there are ethical concerns related to using a deceased person's likeness for entertainment purposes. It raises questions about consent, the authenticity of the presentation, and the emotional impact on the late host's family, friends, and fans.
"The decision to create a hologram of a deceased individual for a show would likely be met with mixed reactions and careful consideration.
"Ultimately, the use of a hologram in such a context would require careful thought, deliberation, and respect for the legacy of the late Gay Byrne, as well as the opinions and sentiments of those closely connected to him."
And - finally - ChatGPT appeared to rule itself out of the running for the job.
It said: "As an AI language model, I don't have a physical presence or the ability to directly interact with the real world. While I can generate text and engage in conversations, hosting a television show like the Late Late Show requires much more than just generating text.
"It involves live interactions with guests, audience engagement, improvisation, and other nuanced skills that are best performed by a human host.
"Additionally, the role of a Late Late Show host typically involves personal charisma, empathy, and the ability to connect with a diverse range of guests and viewers.
"These qualities are often best conveyed by a human host who can bring their own unique perspective, emotions, and experiences to the show.
"While AI technology like ChatGPT can be used to assist with content generation, fact-checking, or providing information, it is unlikely to fully replace the role of a human host on a show like the Late Late Show.
"Human hosts bring a level of authenticity, spontaneity, and emotional connection that is currently difficult to replicate with AI alone."
READ NEXT:
