RTÉ has announced that broadcaster Ryan Tubridy is to step down from The Late Late Show at the end of the season.
Speaking about his decision to leave the longest-running live TV chat show in the world Tubridy said: "It has been a privilege to host the national institution that is The Late Late Show for the last 14 years.
"I want to thank the tremendous teams of producers, researchers, crew and executives who have done the hard work to keep the show on the road over the years. Many have become dear friends.
"Also, to the viewers, I am so grateful for the loyalty you have shown to The Late Late Show, week in, week out.
"Not only did you raise €30m for Irish charities, including over €15m for children's charities all over the island that are particularly close to my heart, but you showed incredible generosity of spirit for which I am profoundly grateful.
"I was often touched by the kind comments of viewers stopping me on the street or at the supermarket on a Saturday to say 'thank you' or 'well done' for highlighting an issue that affected them or their families on the previous night's show. Go raibh maith agaibh.
"And finally, to my family who stood by me every day of every week, year in, year out. To my daughters especially, they put up with so much and I am as grateful to them as I am awestruck by them."
We need your consent to load this rte-player contentWe use rte-player to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content.Manage Preferences
RTÉ has not yet made any decision regarding the next presenter of The Late Late Show and said in a statement that an announcement will be made later in the summer.
Tubridy added: "I will continue on the radio show which I love and will talk about other projects in the future that will embrace my love of books, history and Ireland but that's for another day.
"For now, we have exciting plans for the remaining shows this season. Stay tuned!"
RTÉ Director-General, Dee Forbes said: "I would like to thank Ryan and acknowledge his enormous commitment to The Late Late Show during the seven years I have had the privilege to work with him.
"The Late Late Show is a TV phenomenon at home and abroad which continues to hold a special place in Irish life and Ryan can take enormous credit for that. He had big shoes to fill, but he has made the show his own over the past fourteen years.
"The transformation of The Late Late Toy Show into a national event celebrating Irish children and the most popular television programme in Ireland every year is testament to his talents as a broadcaster and his ability to create a unique connection with children and audiences all over Ireland, and beyond.
"There are so many great memories and special moments to look back on, and more to come, which we will rightly celebrate in the months ahead."
Tubridy will present his final Late Late Show at 9.35pm on Friday 26 May on RTÉ One.
He will continue to present his radio show on weekday mornings from 9.00am - 10.00am on RTÉ Radio 1.
