Miriam O’Callaghan has ended speculation that she’s set to replace Ryan Tubridy as host of The Late Late Show.
Shortly after his exit was confirmed last week, 63-year-old O'Callaghan was tipped to succeed Tubridy, amid impassioned calls for the next presenter to be female.
Miriam O'Callaghan will always have that honour in any case, having hosted a full episode when Tubridy had to be quarantined with Covid-19 symptoms during the pandemic.
Despite a clamour for her to take over, the Prime Time host insisted she doesn’t want the job.
In a statement on Instagram, she said “The Late Late Show is an incredible programme. 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 superb job presenting it for the past 14 years.”
She said her current role is too important for her to leave
“I love what I do too much on Prime Time to leave it, and what we do in current affairs as a team really matters, and can actually change lives. It’s what I love doing most of all as a broadcast journalist, and I’m not prepared to give that up for any show,” she confessed.
Miriam concluded her statement by writing: “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!”
A little news - just to stop all the questions, including from my wonderful Mum 🥰 pic.twitter.com/9nTp5A5baW
— Miriam O'Callaghan (@MiriamOCal) March 21, 2023
