Patrick Kielty made an emotional comeback to RTÉ’s The Late Late Show on Friday evening, expressing heartfelt gratitude to audiences for their kindness following his marital separation from Cat Deeley.
The 54-year-old Northern Irish host appeared visibly moved during his opening monologue, marking his first television appearance since the couple revealed their decision to divorce in July.
Fighting back tears, Kielty acknowledged the overwhelming support he had received throughout the summer months.
The presenter’s return to the iconic Irish chat programme came after a three-month hiatus, during which he and Deeley, 48, publicly confirmed the end of their 13-year marriage.
“Honestly, it is so nice to be back with you, especially after this summer where I have genuinely been blown away by all of the love and support that you guys have sent my way,” Kielty told the studio audience.
The presenter emphasised the unique connection between host and viewers, stating: “One of the greatest joys of hosting this show is that you’re never alone.”
His voice wavered as he thanked supporters in Irish, saying “go raibh míle maith agat” to those who had shown compassion towards his family.
“It’s one of the many reasons why walking out here is always a privilege, why being back here tonight truly puts flesh on my bones,” he added, before welcoming viewers to the programme.
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A clip of Mr Kielty’s heartfelt monologue has since gone viral on social media, and several famous faces have shown their support for his touching words.
GB News Breakfast star Eamonn Holmes showed his support by ‘liking’ the clip while TV chef Donal Skehan commented: “Go on Paddy!”
Elsewhere, Clodagh McKenna replied with a love heart emoji while BBC Radio 2 star Zoe Ball also ‘liked’ the post.
Mr Kielty and Ms Deeley released a joint statement on July 29 confirming their decision to separate, emphasising that their split involved no third parties.
The former couple, who wed in 2012, share two sons – Milo, nine, and James, seven.
Their announcement read: “We have taken the decision to end our marriage and are now separated. There is no other party involved.”
The pair pledged to remain “united as loving parents” whilst requesting privacy for their family.
Ms Deeley, who co-hosts ITV’s This Morning alongside Ben Shephard, has not publicly discussed the separation since returning to work after her summer break.
The programme’s third season under Kielty’s stewardship featured an impressive roster of celebrity guests, including Hollywood stars Colin Farrell and Margot Robbie.
The actors appeared to promote their latest film, A Big Bold Beautiful Journey, described as a romantic fantasy following two strangers on an extraordinary adventure.