RTE Late Late Show viewers hail guest a 'national treasure' as Kielty ticks off bucket list

RTÉ Late Late Show viewers have hailed legendary Irish singer-songwriter Christy Moore as a "national treasure" following his appearance on the long-running RTÉ chat show on Friday night, with host Patrick Kielty ticking one off his bucket list in the process.

Kildare native Moore joined Kilety in the RTE studios to discuss his latest album, A Terrible Beauty, which was released yesterday. During the episode, Moore treated the audience to live performances of tracks from the album, as well as his iconic song Viva la Quinta Brigada.

His appearance marked his first on the Late Late Show since Kielty took over from Ryan Tubridy as host. 

Kielty, originally from Co Down, described the opportunity to interview Moore as a personal milestone. "One of the dreams I had when I got this gig was to be introducing this man," Kielty said emotionally. "To just be sitting here, beside you tonight, is putting absolute flesh in my bones."

Ticked off Paddy’s bucket list #latelate pic.twitter.com/yrTVyyJGKa

— The Late Late Show (@RTELateLateShow) November 1, 2024

In a reflective moment, Kielty asked Moore if he felt Ireland had changed for the better since his first Late Late Show appearance. Moore acknowledged the complexity of progress. 

"In ways it is, in ways it isn't," he replied. "There’s a lot of hardship in the country now and there’s also a lot of wealth. Some people are doing very, very well and others aren’t doing so good… There’s a lot of people in Ireland now who need more than they’re getting."

Moore also voiced concerns about rising negativity and division in the country. "There’s a lot of hatred coming up in this country, which is a bit scary. There’s a lot of stuff happening that is very worrying," he added. Despite these issues, Moore affirmed his deep love for Ireland. "But I wouldn’t live anywhere else in the world. I just love it here… I don’t want to play anywhere else. I just like it here."

The 78-year-old’s appearance resonated deeply with viewers, who took to social media to express admiration for the beloved musician.

One user said: "Just watched Paddy Kielty interviewing Christy Moore on the Late Late Show on RTE1. Christy his usual wonderful self and Paddy utterly starstruck and emotional meeting Christy, wonderful stuff."

Another said: "We’re so lucky to have such a national treasure in Christy Moore."

During the show, Moore was trending on social media: "Christy Moore trending, putting the heart sideways in me..."