Get ready for a heartwarming holiday tradition that's about to unfold! The Late Late Toy Show is back, and this time, the Grinch is crashing the party!
In just 58 minutes, the highly anticipated Irish Christmas TV special will air, hosted by the charming Patrick Kielty for the third year running. But here's where it gets controversial... Kielty is donning the iconic green costume of the Dr. Seuss character, The Grinch, in an attempt to steal Christmas!
Kielty, with his refreshing perspective, sees the show as a joyful adventure rather than a high-pressure gig. He considers himself fortunate to be at the helm of a program that brings so much happiness to households across the island of Ireland.
Among the lucky participants is Maire from Magilligan, County Londonderry, who describes her selection as a dream come true. The RTÉ show has become an annual tradition, inviting children to test and review the latest toys, and showcasing the singing and dancing talents of dozens of youngsters from both Northern Ireland and the Republic.
Maire, who got the call after her mother sent a video of her singing to RTÉ, shares her excitement and hopes that other young girls watching will realize that dreams can come true with hard work and dedication in music or dance.
"It's a dream come true to get the phone call," she says. "I've been singing from a young age, and I love the reaction it brings from others. I can't reveal what I'll be doing, but I'll be singing to millions, and it's going to be out of this world!"
Kielty, in an interview with BBC Radio Ulster's Good Morning Ulster program, emphasizes that the show is all about coming together and enjoying the magic. "The toy show is like a rocket that takes off once it starts. Where it lands, nobody knows. The kids always have something up their sleeves to make us laugh."
One of the show's highlights is the parade featuring children from all 32 counties across the island. "It brings everybody together, no matter where they're from," Kielty says. "Last year, we had Brian Óg from Tyrone who stole the show. There's always great representation from all four provinces, and that puts a smile on people's faces."
This year's Toy Show also includes performances by 13-year-old Aoibheann and 14-year-old Aislinn, pupils at St. Catherine's College in Armagh. Aislinn, who has been playing the fiddle and taking singing lessons since age seven, is excited for her big moment. "I know it will be an amazing experience," she says.
And this is the part most people miss... the show's theme! Christmas movies have been a recurring theme since Kielty took over as presenter in 2023. This year, he's transforming into The Grinch, a role that requires a three-hour makeup session using cosmetics and prosthetic molds. It takes an hour and a half to remove the look, and Kielty jokes, "Let's see what happens."
Kielty adds, "Some might say there's little transformation needed for me to become the Grinch, but I'm pushing back on that!"
The opening of this year's show will feature a special voiceover by none other than Ballymena native, Liam Neeson.
Mark your calendars! The Late Late Toy Show airs on Friday, December 5th, at 21:35 GMT on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. It's a must-watch, not just for Irish viewers, but for anyone around the world who wants to be part of this heartwarming tradition.
So, what do you think? Is the Grinch's appearance a fun twist or a controversial move? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this unique holiday tradition!
