Get ready for a Christmas spectacle like no other—The Late Late Toy Show is back, and this year, it’s getting a Grinch-sized twist! But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Patrick Kielty’s transformation into the iconic Dr. Seuss character a festive delight or a daring departure from tradition? Let’s dive in.
The countdown has officially begun for Ireland’s most beloved Christmas television event, with County Down’s own Patrick Kielty at the helm for his third year. Tonight, he’s not just hosting—he’s stealing the show, quite literally, by dressing up as the Grinch. But don’t worry, he’s not here to cancel Christmas; he’s here to celebrate it in the most whimsical way possible.
Kielty, ever the optimist, doesn’t view the show as a high-pressure gig. Instead, he feels ‘incredibly fortunate’ to be at the heart of something that spreads so much joy. And he’s not alone in his enthusiasm. Maire, a young performer from Magilligan, County Londonderry, told BBC News NI that being part of the show is ‘a dream come true.’ Her journey began when her mother sent a video of her singing to RTÉ, and the rest, as they say, is history.
‘I’ve been singing since I was tiny,’ Maire shared. ‘It’s not just about the music; it’s about the way it makes me feel and how it brings people together. I can’t reveal what I’m doing, but I’ll be singing to millions, and it’s going to be absolutely magical.’ At just 16, Maire has been a loyal viewer of the Late Late Toy Show for years, and now she’s stepping into the spotlight herself. ‘I hope other young girls watch and realize that dreams really can come true if you pursue music or dance,’ she added.
The show is more than just a TV program—it’s an annual tradition that unites families across the island of Ireland. As always, children will test the latest toys and share their unfiltered opinions, while dozens of young talents from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland will showcase their singing and dancing skills. And this is the part most people miss: The parade featuring children from all 32 counties is a powerful symbol of unity, proving that no matter where you’re from, the Toy Show brings everyone together.
Patrick Kielty, speaking to BBC Radio Ulster’s Good Morning Ulster, described the show as a rocket ship—once it takes off, no one knows where it’ll land. ‘The kids always have something up their sleeves to keep you on your toes,’ he said with a laugh. Last year, Brian Óg from Tyrone stole the show, and Kielty is excited to see who’ll shine this time around.
But let’s talk about the elephant in the room—or should we say, the Grinch in the studio? Kielty’s transformation into the green humbug is no small feat. He’ll spend three hours in the makeup chair, using a mix of cosmetics and prosthetics, and another hour and a half to reverse the process. ‘Let’s see what happens,’ he joked. Bold claim alert: Some might say he’s already got the Grinch’s facial expressions down pat, but Kielty is quick to push back on that notion.
This year’s show also features a special voiceover from Ballymena native Liam Neeson, adding an extra layer of star power to the festivities. And with Christmas movies as the ongoing theme since Kielty took over in 2023—following his Elf and Home Alone transformations—this Grinch-themed spectacle is sure to be a highlight.
The Late Late Toy Show isn’t just Ireland’s most-watched program; it’s a global phenomenon, thanks to its accessibility. ‘It’s like an Irish Thanksgiving,’ Kielty explained. ‘It’s not quite Christmas, but it’s got that warm, communal feel. No matter where you are in the world, you can tune in and be part of the magic.’
So, mark your calendars: The Late Late Toy Show airs on Friday, December 5th, at 21:35 GMT on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time viewer, this year’s show promises to be unforgettable. But here’s the question: Is the Grinch the perfect choice for this festive extravaganza, or is it a risky move? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’re all ears!
