The Late Late Show Summer Break 2026: What’s Replacing Patrick Kielty’s Show & When It Returns
RTÉ’s iconic The Late Late Show has gone dark for the summer, with blockbuster films taking over its Friday-night slot. As Patrick Kielty’s third season concludes and his future with the show remains uncertain, here’s what viewers need to know about the summer replacement schedule—and when the chat show will return.
What’s Replacing The Late Late Show This Summer?
Beginning last Friday, May 9, 2026, RTÉ One has swapped out The Late Late Show for a summer film lineup. The channel’s Friday-night slot at 9:35 PM will now feature a rotating selection of high-profile movies, starting with Kenneth Branagh’s Murder on the Orient Express—starring an all-star cast that includes Daisy Ridley, Johnny Depp and Penélope Cruz. The film follows Hercule Poirot as he investigates a murder aboard the legendary train, blending mystery with classic whodunit intrigue.
For viewers seeking lighter fare, RTÉ Two will air Cyrano, a musical romance starring Peter Dinklage, at the same time. Meanwhile, Virgin Media One has filled its Friday-night schedule with true crime documentaries, including My Boyfriend, My Rapist: The Secret Footage, while Virgin Media Two will broadcast St. Patrick’s Athletic matches in the League of Ireland.
“That is it from us for tonight, and for this season, we hope you have a fab summer.”
—Patrick Kielty, signing off from his third season of The Late Late Show on May 9, 2026.
Full Summer Film Schedule (Confirmed So Far)
- May 16, 2026: Murder on the Orient Express (RTÉ One, 9:35 PM)
- May 23, 2026: Cyrano (RTÉ Two, 9:35 PM)
- Ongoing: Additional blockbuster films will replace The Late Late Show weekly until its return in September.
When Will The Late Late Show Return?
RTÉ has officially confirmed that The Late Late Show will resume on Friday, September 15, 2026, at 9:35 PM on RTÉ One. The announcement, first reported by Dundalk Democrat, marks the end of the show’s annual hiatus.
Patrick Kielty’s Future: Will He Stay On?
As of May 2026, RTÉ has not renewed Patrick Kielty’s contract as host of The Late Late Show. While Kielty wrapped his third season with a star-studded episode featuring Westlife and comedian Garron Noone, the broadcaster has remained tight-lipped about his future. Industry sources, including RSVP Live, suggest there is a general consensus that Kielty will continue—but no official confirmation has been made.
Kielty’s tenure has been marked by record ratings and a shift toward a more contemporary, audience-driven format. However, the show’s legacy as Ireland’s longest-running chat program—originally hosted by Gay Byrne from 1962 to 2006—adds pressure to the decision. Viewers and critics alike will be watching closely to see if RTÉ opts for a new face or extends Kielty’s contract.
Key Takeaways
- Summer Replacement: RTÉ One is airing movies (starting with Murder on the Orient Express) in The Late Late Show’s usual slot.
- Return Date: The show is set to resume on September 15, 2026.
- Kielty’s Status: His contract is not renewed; RTÉ has not announced a successor.
- Ratings Impact: The summer break could influence contract negotiations and future programming decisions.
Why This Matters for Irish TV
The Late Late Show is more than just a chat program—it’s a cultural institution. Its summer break reflects broader trends in Irish broadcasting, where traditional programming is increasingly competing with streaming services and global content. The decision on Kielty’s future could signal whether RTÉ is modernizing its flagship show or doubling down on its legacy format.
For now, viewers can enjoy a cinematic summer, but the real question remains: Who will take the reins when the show returns in September?
FAQ: The Late Late Show Summer Break 2026
- Q: Will The Late Late Show return in September 2026?
- A: Yes, RTÉ has confirmed the show will return on Friday, September 15, 2026.
- Q: What movies are replacing The Late Late Show?
- A: The first film is Murder on the Orient Express (May 16), followed by a rotating selection of blockbusters.
- Q: Is Patrick Kielty leaving The Late Late Show?
- A: RTÉ has not renewed his contract, but no successor has been announced.
- Q: Where can I watch The Late Late Show’s summer replacements?
- A: RTÉ One (main films), RTÉ Two (Cyrano), and Virgin Media One (true crime docs).