Patrick Kielty will be the new host of BBC Radio 5 Live’s 9-11am Saturday morning show.
From September 3, Paddy will take over the weekly slot currently occupied by Scott Mills and Chris Stark on the MediaCityUK-based radio channel.
Reflecting that feel-good Saturday morning vibe – with work in the rear-view mirror and your football team yet to break your heart – the show will kickstart the weekend with big names and big laughs.
Each week, Paddy will be joined by guests from the world of entertainment and sport. He’ll also chat with the 5 Live listeners, welcoming them onto the show for some Saturday morning fun.
With his characteristic humour, energy and warmth, Paddy will offer his new listeners a welcoming place to come and celebrate the start of the weekend.
Kielty said: “Saturday mornings on 5 Live have always been a big part of my weekend and I can’t wait to now be part of it from the other side of the mic. I’m really looking forward to having some craic with the 5 Live listeners and our great guests. I can’t thank 5 Live enough for this opportunity and I’ve promised them I won’t disappoint – until my first show.”
Heidi Dawson, controller of BBC Radio 5 Live, added: “Paddy is a special broadcaster with warmth, wit and honesty. Whether performing stand-up, presenting a hard-hitting documentary or sharing stories on the radio, he has that unique ability to make you laugh and make you think. We’re really excited that Paddy will be helping kick-start Saturday mornings for us and we know he’ll be great company for the 5 Live audience as they start their weekend.”
Born in Dundrum, Co Down, Kielty began his stand-up career as host of Belfast’s first comedy club The Empire Laughs Back in 1992. An award-winning stand up and broadcaster, his BBC credits include PK Tonight, Patrick Kielty Almost Live and Live at the Apollo for the BBC. A former Grierson UK Documentary Host of the Year, his BAFTA-nominated My Dad, The Peace Deal and Me won many plaudits, whilst his latest film, Patrick Kielty: 100 Years of Union premiered on BBC One to both audience and critical acclaim.
Listeners can tune in to the new show on BBC Radio 5 Live on DAB, MW and online via BBC Sounds.
