Killea singer David James showcased his talent on RTÉ's "The Late Late Show" on May 2, 2025, joining fellow artists Claudia Buckley and Gerry Guthrie for a special segment celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. The trio performed a timeless country classic, paying homage to the legendary institution in Music City, which has been a cornerstone of American country music since its inception.
David, who has been captivating audiences since his teenage years, gained national recognition after collaborating with renowned singer Daniel O'Donnell on the 2021 hit single, "Don’t Take The Good Times For Granted." His rise in the music scene has also seen him take on the role of mentor on TG4’s country talent show, "Glór Tíre," for the past two seasons. His performance on The Late Late Show was a testament to his growing status in the industry.
Hosted by Patrick Kielty, the show featured an eclectic mix of guests, including Tánaiste Simon Harris, Lottie Ryan, and boyband stars Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden. Harris, in his capacity as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, discussed pressing political issues, including Ireland's stance on neutrality and its defense strategy amid concerns over a potential trade war. His insights were met with mixed reactions from viewers, with some expressing fatigue over his responses. One viewer remarked, "Simon is being really clear on a lot of issues tonight... yawn," while another criticized his "media rehabilitation" efforts.
Patrick Kielty, known for his engaging hosting style, opened the discussion by addressing housing—an issue that has become a focal point in Irish politics. His approach garnered praise, with viewers appreciating his direct questioning of Harris on this urgent topic. "I'm glad that the first question Patrick Kielty asked was about housing and very good follow-up questions. It's an absolutely awful situation and the most urgent," one viewer noted.
Meanwhile, Lottie Ryan took a moment to reflect on her father, the late Gerry Ryan, during the show. Marking the 15th anniversary of his passing, she shared heartfelt memories of their close bond and opened up about the impact of losing him at just 23 years old. Lottie's candid discussion provided a poignant moment on the show, allowing viewers to connect with her personal story of loss and legacy.
Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden, who have teamed up as Boyzlife, also graced the stage to discuss their impressive careers. The duo reminisced about their time in two of the world's most successful boybands, Boyzone and Westlife, and shared insights into their experiences under the management of Louis Walsh. Their journey through the music industry resonated with fans, highlighting the challenges and triumphs they faced along the way.
As the Grand Ole Opry celebrated its centennial, the performances by Claudia Buckley, David James, and Gerry Guthrie were a fitting tribute to the institution that has shaped country music for generations. The artists’ rendition of a classic country song not only honored the Opry's legacy but also showcased the vibrant talent emerging from Ireland's country music scene.
In addition to the musical performances and heartfelt discussions, viewers were also informed of a significant change in programming on RTÉ. The popular soap opera "Fair City" is set to disappear from the schedule temporarily, with the May 6 episode being replaced by a repeat of "The End of the World with Beanz," an environmental docuseries featuring Galway comedian Martin Beanz Warde. Fans of "Fair City" will have to wait until May 1, 2025, to see the next installment of the show, which left viewers on a cliffhanger with character Mairead fighting for her life.
Overall, the May 2 episode of "The Late Late Show" was a blend of music, nostalgia, and pressing political discourse, reflecting the diverse interests of the Irish audience. With a mix of heartfelt tributes, critical discussions on current events, and entertaining performances, the show continues to be a staple of Irish television, drawing in viewers with its engaging content.
As the show aired at 9:35 PM Irish time on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player, it kept audiences entertained and informed, proving once again why it remains a beloved fixture in Irish media.
