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Patrick Kielty, the host of The Late Late Show and The Toy Show, has offered a rare glimpse into his family life with ex-wife Cat Deeley, and his viewpoint on parenting in the digital age.The couple, who announced their separation in July 2025 after 13 years of marriage, continue to co-parent their two sons, Milo, nine, and James, seven. Kielty recently discussed his children’s enthusiasm for The Toy Show and his views on technology and raising a family in interviews with the Sunday World and Sunday Independent.
Separation and Co-Parenting
Kielty and Deeley announced their separation in a joint statement,emphasizing their commitment to their children. The statement read: “We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated.There is no other party involved. We will continue to be united as loving parents to our children and would therefore kindly ask for our family privacy to be respected. There will be no further comment.” https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/television/late-late-show-host-patrick-kielty-and-wife-cat-deeley-separate-40734199.html
The Toy Show and Family Tradition
Kielty revealed that his sons are avid fans of The Toy Show,an annual televised event in Ireland known for its heartwarming moments and children’s reactions to gifts. He shared how his children were amazed by a trolley dash performed by Olympians Phil Healy and Sharlene Mawdsley in a closed smyths Toys store during the 2024 edition. “They were like, ‘They opened that for you?'” Kielty recounted to Sunday World. He also noted their growing excitement in trying to predict the show’s theme each year.
Kielty emphasized the show’s appeal to children, stating to the Sunday Independent that “the magic of the Toy Show is kids being able to see people doing things they’d never be able to do – and whether that’s meeting a hero of theirs, or doing a raid on a closed toy store, that stuff still blows their mind.” https://www.independent.ie/entertainment/television/late-late-show/patrick-kielty-on-the-toy-show-and-why-he-wont-let-his-sons-have-phones-40734214.html
beyond The Toy Show, Kielty also shared his thoughts on parenting in the modern age, specifically addressing the role of technology. He expressed concern about the casual use of phones to pacify children, questioning whether it contributes to a greater desire for screen time later on.
“You see parents who give their kids a phone for 20 minutes so they can have their meal in peace, and then we wonder why those kids want a phone again later?” Kielty observed. He highlighted the challenge adults face in understanding how children seamlessly navigate multiple screens simultaneously, noting their ability to engage with content like texting and TED Talks concurrently.
Key Takeaways:
* Patrick Kielty and Cat Deeley are co-parenting their sons, Milo and James, following their separation in July 2025.
* Kielty’s sons are eager fans of The Toy Show, finding joy in its unique experiences.
* Kielty is mindful of the impact of technology on children and questions the practice of using phones as a fast fix for parental convenience.
Kielty’s comments offer a relatable perspective on the joys and challenges of modern family life, balancing a high-profile career with the responsibilities of raising children in an increasingly digital world. As he continues to host The Late Late Show and The Toy Show, his insights into family dynamics and the importance of creating magical experiences for children are likely to resonate with audiences.