Country fans are in for a big Friday night as entertainment news Ireland turns its attention to RTÉ’s returning Late Late Country Music Special. The annual favourite is back with a packed line-up, a major tribute to Dolly Parton, and a mix of Irish stars and Nashville talent that should make this one of the standout live music television events of the season.
The special, hosted by Patrick Kielty, has built a loyal following for blending live performance, warm conversation and a celebration of country music’s biggest names. This year’s edition looks set to raise the bar again, opening with a surprise appearance from one of Irish country music’s best-known performers.
Why This Late Late Special Is Leading entertainment news Ireland
RTÉ is promising a night full of memorable moments, with the show balancing nostalgia, new music and emotional storytelling. At the heart of the programme is a tribute to Dolly Parton, whose impact on country music and popular culture continues to resonate across generations.
Cliona Hagan will lead the on-air celebration of Parton’s life and legacy, joined by some of Ireland’s biggest country acts. Expect personal reflections, stories from her remarkable career and performances of songs closely associated with the music icon. For viewers following Irish entertainment news and music news Ireland, this is likely to be one of the week’s biggest talking points.
Special Guests, New Songs and Emotional Moments
One of the headline guests is Nashville singer-songwriter Ashley Campbell, daughter of the late Glen Campbell. Her appearance adds an international dimension to the special, but with a distinctly personal note. She is expected to speak about her affection for Ireland and the memories she shares of touring here with her father.
Viewers will also hear a touching performance of Gentle On My Mind, a moment that should strike a chord with long-time country fans.
Nathan Carter is another major draw on the night. He will debut Walk On Faith, taken from his new album Doing Alright, and discuss what lies ahead in his career. Among the standout points from his chat is his upcoming Carnegie Hall debut in New York around Halloween, a milestone moment for one of the genre’s biggest Irish names.
Other names confirmed for the show
- Una Healy
- Clodagh Lawlor
- Claudia Buckley
- Jimmy Buckley
- Sandy Kelly
- David James
- Trudi Lalor
- Ciarán Rosney
- Jesse Sludds from Opening Act
The show will also reveal the newest inductee into The Late Late Show Country Music Hall of Fame, giving the broadcast an added sense of occasion.
What It Means for TV and music fans
In a crowded week for TV news Ireland and entertainment updates Ireland, the Late Late Country Music Special stands out because it knows its audience. It offers more than just performances; it delivers a shared live viewing experience rooted in storytelling, national affection for country music and a celebration of artists who continue to shape the genre.
It also reflects how Irish celebrity news and broadcast entertainment can still create event television. Between the Dolly Parton tribute, Nathan Carter’s latest chapter and Ashley Campbell’s heartfelt appearance, the programme has all the ingredients of a warm, crowd-pleasing Friday night watch.
For anyone tracking entertainment news Ireland, this special looks set to be essential viewing: a blend of star power, heartfelt tribute and the kind of musical celebration that The Late Late Show does best.
