One of the most inspirational performances that the show has had.
Renowned Irish songwriter, broadcaster and journalist Shay Healy was a guest on this week’s Late Late Show and aside from performing an extremely moving version of Stardust, his account of dealing with Parkinson’s disease has won plenty of plaudits.
The former host of Nighthawks and Where Are They Now? was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2004 and he was extremely open about discussing the devastating impact that the long-term degenerative disorder continues to have on his ability to perform routine tasks.
“The tips of my fingers have gone numb, so I can’t pick up peas if they fall on the floor. I can’t do simple things like tie my laces anymore” he said.
Healy also recalled a galling story which involved four people in Nassau Street, Dublin actually walking over him after he fell to the floor.
The composer of What’s Another Year, Ireland’s winning entry in the 1980 Eurovision Song Contest, wasn’t solely focused on the negatives though because he selflessly shifted the attention towards the magnificent work that the organisation MOVE 4 PARKINSON’S do to help those that have been diagnosed with the disease.
The majority of viewers were then absolutely blown away with his rousing and inspirational version of the famous track, Stardust.
Take a look.
Here’s the interview along with some of the words of admiration for Healy’s appearance on the show..
Great to see Shay Healy on #latelate #lls – kind, talented, brave and funny – one of our greats.
— Carol Hunt (@carolmhunt) December 9, 2016
https://twitter.com/nickybar/status/807364009255112704
Amazing #shayhealy #latelateshow @stablesession well done great performance pic.twitter.com/IPzM3ICaI6
— Trad Nua (@TradNua) December 9, 2016
@Shay_Healy great performance tonight on the @RTELateLateShow really enjoyed it. Keep on fighting to keep the show on the road 👍
— Gary Spike OSullivan (@spike_osullivan) December 9, 2016
This stunning Shay Healy song, When You Become Stardust, is 1 of my favourite songs in the world, but so heartbreakingly poignant #latelate
— Andrea Smith (@AndreaMarySmith) December 9, 2016
Stardust is one of my favourite song. Thank you @Shay_Healy . You consistently hit me in the feels. You are magic. Like stardust. #latelate
— Anne Marie O'Connor (@Kitsgirl1) December 9, 2016
#ShayHealy #LateLate one of the good guys.
— Neil O'Dwyer (@IrishMurals) December 9, 2016
Shay Healy's performance is just so beautiful #latelate
— Samantha Long (@SamanthaELong) December 9, 2016
Met Shay Healy once as a 17 yo on work experience. Great guy and offered words of pure kindness and encouragement #topman #latelate
— Gavan Becton (@GavBecton) December 9, 2016
Powerful performance by Shay Healy. Such dignity #latelate
— Sorcha Crowley (@sorcgirl) December 9, 2016
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