There were laughs and tears on last night’s Late Late Show.
Following on from the success of the Toy Show, this week’s Late Late saw Ryan talk to a host of different guests.
Dublin star Michael Darragh MacAuley made an appearance, speaking about his role as an ambassador with Concern.
While impersonator Oliver Callan gave his satirical musings on the world of politics and sport. Stepping into the role of Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh, he joked about ‘the big Christmas shop’.
The voice of the nation on the big Christmas shop!🎄@olivercallan #LateLate pic.twitter.com/p7BWORUOma
— RTÉ One (@RTEOne) December 6, 2019
Comedian Des Bishop was also on the show discussing his new show Mia Mamma, in which he explores the varying stages of grief.
However, it was the story of the late Mia O’Neill, as told by her mother Aisling and grandfather Willie, that really resonated with the country.
Outlining the tragic loss of the 16-year old, who took her own life on September 6th, Mia’s family spoke to Ryan on the topics of bullying and racism.
Agreeing that bullying is “another virus infecting the country”, Aisling commented that it’s “rampant” in everyday life.
Going on to mention ‘Mia’s Army’, ex-army man Willie told the audience of a One Life Ireland not-for-profit charity that the family hope to get up and running in Mia’s honour.
There has been a public outpour of support for the family after the heart-wrenching interview with people commending them for their strength.
My heart is broken listening to this story. We need to up the fight against bullying with the most powerful weapon we have – kindness. RIP Mia #LateLate #KindnessMatters
— Jen Hogan⚡ (@jenhoganjourno) December 6, 2019
This incredible, warrior woman. You and your Dad broke all our hearts tonight Aisling. Thank you, thank you, for sharing your story. Maybe now @LeoVaradkar can see the need for hate speech legislation? Or how many more lives will it take? #RIPMia #LateLate #NoToRacism https://t.co/KsWJlwhYfg
— Johanne Webb (@WebbJohanne) December 6, 2019
Her legacy will live on through the work of her family, friends and Mia’s Army.
