Introduction: A New Dawn for RTÉ Radio 1
RTÉ Radio 1 has launched its most significant schedule overhaul in 25 years, a move described by Director of Audio Patricia Monahan as a bid to refresh output while keeping listeners at the heart of decisions. The changes, framed within RTÉ’s New Direction Strategy, promise to blend familiar voices with fresh energy, and they touch every part of the day—from morning conversation to afternoon talk and evening news.
1. The first major shake-up in 25 years
The last comprehensive overhaul dates back to December 1998, following Gay Byrne’s retirement. The new schedule reshapes the weekday rhythm: the 9am slot expands into a one-hour show linked to the legacy of Marian Finucane, and “The Today Show” moves to 9am with David McCullagh at the helm from 3 November. Oliver Callan gains an extended two-hour block from 11am, while Louise Duffy shifts to a 3pm–4pm window, replacing the long-running Afternoon Show format. Drivetime starts earlier at 4pm, and Katie Hannon and Colm Ó Mongáin will co-present before handing over to a new, yet-to-be-named sports show at 6pm. Monahan stressed that McInerney and Ó hEadhra will remain regular presences, even as roles evolve. The changes also ripple through to staffing for Six One News and the Behind the Story podcast, with tributes planned for the late Seán Rocks as Arena’s presenter search begins.
2. ‘Talk to… Kieran’ and Liveline’s new era
One of the day’s most talked-about moves is the Liveline hosting swap. Kieran Cuddihy, formerly of Newstalk’s The Hard Shoulder, will succeed Joe Duffy as the face of Liveline. This announcement has been met with cautious optimism, given Liveline’s 40-year history as a national conversation hub. Cuddihy brings live-broadcast experience and recent acclaim for moderating a high-profile presidential debate. The challenge is clear: maintain Liveline’s fast-paced, emotionally rich format while attracting younger listeners who increasingly text rather than call. RTÉ believes Cuddihy is the right choice to navigate this hot-seat transition.
3. Ray D’Arcy’s departure and a generational shift
Ray D’Arcy’s exit marks a notable generational shift at RTÉ. After 11 years with the broadcaster, D’Arcy’s departure is seen as part of a broader realignment, reflecting evolving audience tastes and a new generation stepping into prominent roles. As familiar names fade from the lineup, RTÉ is betting on a crop of presenters to drive the station forward while preserving the essence of RTÉ Radio 1 for loyal listeners. D’Arcy’s career, from his Den days in the 1980s to his later radio and TV work, illustrates the changing dynamics of Irish media and the station’s ongoing reinvention.
4. David McCullagh at 9am: news, analysis, and broader topics
The move of The Today Show to 9am brings David McCullagh to the morning air, a shift welcomed by some for his political acumen and versatility. McCullagh will anchor a show that balances news analysis with broader topics—culture, entertainment, and consumer issues—creating a bridge between hard news and relatable conversation. Critics question whether the earlier slot could conflict with Morning Ireland, but Monahan promises a well-rounded program that respects the rhythm of Irish morning radio while attracting a diverse audience.
5. The midday shift: more talk, less music?
Historically a musical oasis, RTÉ Radio 1’s midday space is undergoing a change toward greater talk and personality-driven features. Oliver Callan’s extended two-hour block (11am–1pm) shifts the tone, with Louise Duffy’s 3pm show reintroducing a musical element to the afternoon. The evolving lineup raises questions about how much music will feature in Callan’s show versus dedicated music slots, and whether Duffy’s playlists will shape the afternoon’s mood. This change signals RTÉ’s intent to blend engaging talk with music in a way that suits contemporary listening habits.
6. Looking ahead: listening, relevance, and the listener’s voice
The schedule overhaul is more than time changes; it’s a strategic pivot that blends legacy voices with new energy. Monahan emphasises that the aim is modernisation without alienation, a balance many broadcasters strive for in a changing media landscape. Media expert Dr Roddy Flynn of DCU notes radio’s continuing relevance amid podcasting and streaming, arguing listeners will seek high-quality content wherever it appears. The success of RTÉ’s new schedule will hinge on audience response and JNLR feedback in the coming weeks and months. In short, what’s good, what’s necessary, and whether listeners embrace the refreshed rhythm will be measured by real-time engagement and surveys ahead.
