The six-year-old’s message of virtual hugs has officially reached the White House.
After capturing the hearts of the nation on The Late Late Toy Show last year, six-year-old Adam King has received a personalised letter from US President Joe Biden – alongside some gifts which are truly “out of this world”.
In the letter, Biden wrote: “On St Patrick’s Day, your Taoiseach Micheál Martin told me about the great work you have been doing and most importantly, your virtual hugs.
“They are a wonderful symbol of hope and joy and have helped many people during these difficult times.
“I’m sure your family knows the Gaelic proverb, ‘Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine’ – ‘In the shadow of each other, we live’. We all need to connect and feel close with other people, and you have done a special thing by bringing people closer together with your virtual hugs.”
When Adam appeared on last November’s Toy Show, the young boy from Cork told Ryan Tubridy about his love for all things intergalactic, all while blessing the audience with a “virtual hug”.
Speaking of the six-year-old’s space ambitions, Biden added: “One day, if you end up sitting in the CAPCOM seat in Houston, I know you will inspire even more people to reach for the stars and follow their dreams.”
He also told Adam: “I want you to know that a lot of smart people from the United States, Ireland and around the world are working hard to beat Covid-19.
“Your message helps give them strength and it gives me strength.”
Adam and his family appeared on last night’s Late Late Show (28 May), the final episode of the season.
They revealed Biden’s letter was delivered to Adam’s home by the Taoiseach, alongside American and Irish flags that were onboard missions to space.
Adam’s father David said of Biden’s message: “There’s a real sort of full-circle feel to this letter.
“The standout moment for me from the Toy Show was when Adam showed you the virtual hug and you said to him… is the hug, is it for me or is it for everyone?
“I think the letter is for everyone as well.”
Another guest on the show was Olympic gold medalist Katie Taylor who also gifted Adam and his family with a signed poster.
Read Biden’s letter in full below.
Was so pleased to share an #AdamsVirtualHug with President Biden during our St. Patrick’s Day engagements – and even more pleased to bring @POTUS‘s thoughtful reply back to Adam.@RTELateLateShow pic.twitter.com/di5q6NOXTb
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) May 28, 2021
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