RTÉ’s Home Alone-Themed Late Late Toy Show Breaks Records
RTÉ’s Late Late Toy Show, with its highly anticipated Home Alone theme, captivated viewers across Ireland and the world. Average TV viewership for Friday’s show soared past 1.6 million, a figure that includes catch-up viewing throughout the weekend and the repeat broadcast.
The magic of the show extended beyond traditional television, with RTÉ Player smashing its previous Toy Show record. An impressive 622,000 streams from Ireland and worldwide were recorded, including Irish Sign Language streams, demonstrating the show’s global appeal.
A Global Celebration of Childhood
Audiences in 139 countries, spanning all 50 US states and all eight Australian territories, tuned in to witness unforgettable moments like Brian Óg’s karaoke rendition, Kevin showcasing his Leitrim half dozen, and Zara’s captivating space facts. A notable 21% of live streams originated outside of Ireland, further solidifying the show’s international presence.
Engaging Audiences Across Platforms
RTÉ’s social media platforms buzzed with excitement, fueled by content showcasing the show’s incredible demo kids and performers, including “little Kevins,” “Wet Bandits,” behind-the-scenes glimpses with Paddy, and a rocking performance of Thunderstruck. The show garnered a staggering 18.4 million video views across platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, X, and BlueSky, with 1.4 million engagements.
Patrick Kielty: A Night to Remember
“I can’t believe it’s over for another year but I’m still buzzing from a magical Toy Show last Friday night,” said Toy Show host Patrick Kielty. “As always that’s down to the amazing kids who knocked it out of the park with their performances, their toy demos and bringing their unique personalities, and to you at home for watching and sharing the love on the night.”
“The incredible amount our audience watching at home gave to the Toy Show Appeal this year is mind-blowing and the difference it will make to kids and their families up, down and across Ireland is truly humbling.”
“Thank you so much for making it a night to remember.”
Generosity Fuels a Brighter Future
Viewers’ generosity shone brightly through their donations to the Toy Show Appeal, raising a remarkable €4.9 million this year. Since its inception in 2020, the appeal has raised over €26 million, benefiting countless children’s charities across Ireland.
“The huge generosity of The Late Late Toy Show viewers will transform young lives in every county,” said Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of Community Foundation Ireland. “On behalf of the Community Foundation and our voluntary, community and charitable partners, I want to sincerely thank everyone who took part in this truly magical television moment.
As the money continues to flow in, we will now begin the work of turning it into positive action to meet essential needs, address health and wellbeing, as well as promoting play and creativity.
An application process for groups will open in January and full details will be placed on our website www.communityfoundation.ie.”