News has broken this afternoon that legendary broadcaster Gay Byrne has passed away aged 85.
RTÉ confirmed the news along with a statement from the former Late Late Show presenter’s family which says: “It is with sadness that Kathleen, Crona and Suzy wish to announce that their beloved Gay has died peacefully at home today, surrounded by his family.
“We wish to thank everybody for their love and support during Gay’s illness. Particularly the wonderful teams in the Mater Hospital, St Francis Hospice and the Irish Cancer Society.”
It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of Gay Byrne. https://t.co/KGEdAk5SIR pic.twitter.com/qpYQcuCWMa
— RTÉ (@rte) November 4, 2019
Byrne first began presenting The Late Late Show in 1962 and continued in the role until 1999. He was also known for presenting The Gay Byrne Show on RTÉ Radio One as well as other TV programmes such as The Meaning Of Life, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire? and For One Night Only.
Byrne had been ill for some time.