Duffy, Joe

Broadcaster Joe Duffy (1955-) was the host of the popular radio phone-in show 'Liveline' for over 25 years.

Born in 1956 in Dublin, Joe Duffy grew up in Ballyfermot. He studied at Trinity College Dublin, where he became involved in student politics before going on to become the President of the Union of Students in Ireland. In that position, he led student calls for government investment in education and access to education for all.

He worked with the probation services before joining RTÉ in 1989 as a researcher. As a reporter with the Gay Byrne radio show production team, he received a Jacob's Award in 1992.

In 1998, he filled in for Marian Finucane as presenter of 'Liveline' on RTÉ Radio 1 over the summer. 'Liveline' was first broadcast in 1985 when it was presented and produced by Marian Finucane and Doireann Ní Bhriain. On 4 January 1999, Joe Duffy took over as the presenter of the 'Liveline' show, where members of the public phone in to give their opinions on stories of the day or bring issues to the airwaves.

On television, he presented a number of documentaries for RTÉ Television and was the presenter of 'Spirit Level', 'Local Heroes' and 'The Meaning of Life'.

In April 2025, he announced his retirement from RTÉ and presented 'Liveline' for the final time on Friday, 27 June 2025.