Ryan Tubridy has spoken publicly for the first time as his departure from RTÉ, the Irish national broadcaster, in an interview with RTÉ Radio 1 on Monday, February 8th, 2026. The conversation, marking his first appearance on the station since August 2023, covered his exit from the broadcaster, his feelings towards public support, and his future career aspirations, including a potential book deal.
RTÉ Exit and Potential Return
Tubridy addressed the circumstances surrounding his exit from RTÉ, which stemmed from a controversy over undisclosed payments. While acknowledging the difficulties of the situation, he suggested that the actions of the former Director-General, Dee forbes, may have inadvertently benefited him. He stated that the release of facts surrounding the controversy allowed him to reassess his career path and explore new opportunities.
When directly questioned about the possibility of returning to RTÉ in the future, Tubridy did not dismiss the idea outright. He responded with a cautious “I wouldn’t say never,” indicating an openness to revisiting the possibility under different circumstances. However, he emphasized his current focus on new projects and opportunities.
Public Support and Personal Life
The interview also touched upon the public reaction to his departure. Tubridy expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received from the Irish public, acknowledging that it had been a notable source of strength during a challenging period. He noted feeling a strong connection with his listeners and viewers, and appreciated their messages of encouragement.
Tubridy also briefly addressed a topic he typically avoids: his personal life, specifically his divorce.He explained his long-standing decision to refrain from discussing his divorce publicly,citing a desire to protect the privacy of those involved and maintain a respectful distance from personal matters. He emphasized that this boundary is important to him and will continue to be upheld.
Upcoming Memoir and Future Projects
A significant portion of the interview focused on Tubridy’s plans for the future. He revealed that he is currently working on a memoir, drawing from extensive notebooks filled with observations and “facts” accumulated throughout his career. The book is expected to offer a complete account of his experiences in broadcasting and provide insights into his personal journey.
Tubridy hinted at other potential projects in the pipeline, but remained tight-lipped about specific details. He expressed excitement about the prospect of exploring new creative avenues and continuing to engage with audiences through various platforms. He is currently hosting a daily show on Lionsound FM.
The interview provided a candid and insightful glimpse into Ryan Tubridy’s perspective on his past, present, and future, offering a sense of closure on a turbulent chapter and a hopeful outlook on what lies ahead.
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