The Late Late Toy Show is gearing up for another festive edition, with Patrick Kielty from County Down returning for a third year at the helm. Tonight, he’ll lean into the show’s playful spirit by dressing as The Grinch, a Dr. Seuss character, in a move that’s sure to grab attention.
Kielty downplays the pressure, describing the hosting job as a fortunate position in the middle of a program that brings so much joy to viewers.
Among those invited to perform tonight is Maire from Magilligan, County Londonderry, who calls the opportunity a dream come true after her mother submitted a video of her singing to RTÉ. Maire, who has been singing since she was very young, looks forward to performing before millions and hopes her experience will inspire others to pursue music or dance with confidence.
The RTÉ tradition is a cherished fixture across the island of Ireland, with children testing new toys on air and providing candid reviews, while many others from Northern Ireland and the Republic showcase singing and dancing talents.
Maire described the moment she received the booking as a dream come true and emphasized the uplifting effect of music on herself and those around her. She hasn’t revealed details of her performance, but she anticipates singing to a huge audience, promising an unforgettable moment.
The 16-year-old has grown up watching the Toy Show, often gathering family for the annual ritual of snacks, laughter, and performances. She hopes her experience can show other young girls that dreams can come true through dedication in music or dance.
The show’s spirit, described by Kielty, is one of togetherness. In a radio appearance, he called the Toy Show a program that launches with excitement and momentum, with kids often bringing surprising ideas to entertain the audience. The parade featuring participants from all 32 counties is highlighted as a key strength, uniting people from across the island.
Reflecting on past moments, Kielty noted that a standout performer from Tyrone last year helped demonstrate the show’s capacity to spotlight diverse talent from all four provinces, a trend he believes brings smiles to viewers.
Two young performers from St Catherine’s College in Armagh—Aoibheann (13) and Aislinn (14)—will feature on Friday night’s broadcast. Aislinn has been learning fiddle and singing since age seven and is excited about the experience.
Aoibheann’s mother, Janine, shared how the family feels proud and thrilled for her daughter. She also recalled their family’s Christmas tradition of turning on the show, enjoying the festive atmosphere, and hoping Aoibheann’s appearance underscores to other young people that pursuing music can lead to remarkable opportunities, even if nerves surface occasionally.
The show’s theme this year centers on Christmas cinema, a thread that began with Kielty’s debut as presenter in 2023 and continues with further nods to holiday favorites. Kielty will transform into The Grinch after a lengthy makeup process—three hours in prosthetics and cosmetics to bring the green character to life. He quips that the removal takes about an hour and a half, joking about the potential for further transformations in future.
Though some might argue the Grinch look requires little facial change, Kielty counters that unlikely assessment and plans a bold depiction nonetheless.
The broadcast will also feature a special voiceover from Ballymena native Liam Neeson at the show’s opening, adding another layer of excitement to the night.
When does the Late Late Toy Show air? It remains the most-watched Irish program of the season, drawing well over a million viewers for its Christmas celebration.
Kielty praised the show’s openness to all viewers, noting it isn’t geo-blocked and can be enjoyed by audiences worldwide. He described the program as an Irish Thanksgiving of sorts—less than full Christmas, but a gathering that makes people feel connected, regardless of location.
Viewers can catch the broadcast on Friday, December 5, at 21:35 GMT on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player, continuing a beloved holiday tradition for many households.
Would this year’s Grinch transformation inspire new fan theories or heated debates about the actor’s portrayal? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation about how this year’s Toy Show might redefine festive broadcasting.
