RTÉ viewers up in arms over 'disrespectful' treatment of GAA legend on Late Late Show

While the GAA took centre stage on Friday night’s episode of the Late Late Show on RTÉ One, some viewers were left confused and disappointed by what they saw as a missed opportunity to hear more from one of the country’s most regarded sportsmen. 

The Late Late Show and host Patrick Kielty celebrated the achievements of GAA teams, individuals and families from across Ireland on Friday night’s GAA special episode, featuring notable figures such as Armagh’s Aidan Forker, Clare’s Tony Kelly, Cork’s Molly Lynch and Kerry’s Niamh Carmody.

The show also paid tribute to the late Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh and explored the spirit of the GAA with contributions from legendary pundit Pat Spillane, GAA president Jarlath Burns, Tipperary comedic duo the 2 Johnnies, Offaly legend Seamas Darby and RTE broadcaster Evanne Ní Chuilinn.

Darby was introduced as a surprise guest during a segment with Pat Spillane and The 2 Johnnies.

Darby, who scored that all-important goal in the 1982 final, was introduced as a surprise guest during a segment with Pat Spillane and the 2 Johnnies. Darby entered the studio After Spillane and the comedy duo correctly answered a trivia question about who scored the famous goal that denied Kerry their historic five-in-a-row in 1982. 

READ MORE: OPINION: GAA President contradicted himself on Late Late over Kyle Hayes and Rory Gallagher

However, immediately after they showed a clip of the goal, the segment cut to an ad break and Darby was given little to no time to speak. 

This left many viewers frustrated, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment. 

Several viewers described the treatment of Offaly great as “disrespectful” and “abysmal treatment,” questioning why such a legendary figure was brought on without being given the chance to share his story. 

Cormac O’Malley posted: “Seamus Darby probably would have been the most interesting person to talk to tonight on the #LateLateShow but no.

“Could have been a whole segment on his own, he has such a story. But no.”

Another wrote: “Very disrespectful to bring out Seamus Darby and not even talk to him! Instead, the Two Johnnies got just a bit more airtime......as if they hadn't got enough!”

A third viewer said: “Why bother bring on Seamus Darby and not have a chat with him, a wasted opportunity.”

A fourth social media user posted: “Abysmal treatment of Seamus Darby tonight on Late Late Show.”