RTÉ legend Gay Byrne has vowed that he will not take up any more contracts with the national broadcaster. The Howth-based presenter, who will turn 80 this August, announced that he felt the time had come to leave his long career with the Montrose station. Mr Bryne joined RTÉ over 50 years ago.
Gay Byrne hosted ‘The Late Late Show’ before handing over to Pat Kenny in 1999, and has maintained a relationship with RTÉ over the years, including through his discussion series ‘The Meaning of Life’ and his music show on RTÉ Lyric FM.
Mr. Byrne stated, “I don't know what I am going to do, but I don't think I will do any more contracts with RTÉ. I will be 80 in August and that seems like a good round figure to wrap things up on and to enjoy as much time as I have left.”
He added, “But I don't know how I would feel with no outlet for my views. Retirement would not suit me.”
It would therefore seem that retiring is not in the cards for Mr Byrne just yet, who has also said he would consider working with another broadcaster, such as on his associate Pat Kenny’s radio station, Newstalk.
This Sunday will mark Byrne’s season finale with Lyric FM, and the broadcaster has admitted that he is not sure if he will return. “It’s my last programme for the current season because I don't want to work during the summer and every Sunday would be gone if I continued on. I am in a situation where I am undecided what I want to do.”
The TV star has remained enthusiastic about his life and career overall, recently stating, “There are fellows half my age who look a great deal grimmer than me. So if I am still able to walk or ride a bike, I'll be happy with that.”
