‘Fierce excited!’ – RTÉ names permanent Radio One replacement for Ryan Tubridy

There had been much speculation about who would take over from the veteran broadcaster after his RTÉ departure.

RTÉ Radio 1 has announced who will be permanently replacing Ryan Tubridy in his former 9am slot on the station. Award-winning impressionist and satirist Oliver Callan has been chosen for the gig, having already filled in for Tubridy following his departure from the Irish public service broadcaster last summer. The announcement was made on Saturday morning (20 January) via The Brendan O'Connor Show on RTÉ Radio 1 where Callan was a guest. You can see a clip of Callan talking about the new role with O'Connor right here:

Taking the mick of presenters ? having to pass them in the hall on Monday morning ?

Bring it on @olivercallan ? pic.twitter.com/4T2D5Z5eOQ — RTÉ Radio 1 (@RTERadio1) January 20, 2024

Oliver Callan named as permanent RTÉ Radio One replacement for Ryan Tubridy

Best known for his hit comedy show Callan’s Kicks - which has been running on RTÉ Radio 1 since 2012 - the acclaimed impressionist said in a statement:

"I am fierce excited to join RTÉ Radio 1 every morning for the hallowed hour of 9am - not least as it will finally stop every person I meet from asking about it. "Mostly though, because 2024 is set to be the best possible year for being part of the national conversation, with seminal moments in elections, sport and culture coming. "I plan to keep the comedy going, to celebrate Irish books, music and history and get serious when we need to. "I can also promise to keep all on-air mentions of Monaghan to a minimum, like its legendary football, poetry and poultry."

Head of RTÉ Radio 1 Peter Woods also said of Callan:  "Oliver is an accomplished broadcaster, who already has a connection with the RTÉ Radio 1 audience. "He is starting a new journey with us now and he will have the full support of the RTÉ Radio 1 team in a programme that will bear his inimitable stamp." The announcement comes the same month as Ryan Tubridy made his debut presenting his new show at Virgin Radio UK. Join JOE’s WhatsApp community for first access to news, updates, and quizzes. Click on this link to receive news and the latest headlines directly to your phone. You can leave the group at any time. Read more:

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