Virgin Media has revealed who will step into Kieran Cuddihy’s shoes on the Tonight Show.

The host moved to RTÉ in 2025, leaving Shane Coleman holding down the fort until a permanent replacement was announced.

He’s now confirmed to stay in the job long term.

Kieran Cuddihy on RTE's Liveline on Radio One
Kieran Cuddihy on RTE’s Liveline on Radio One

Shane, who hails from Donegal, was previously the editor of The Sunday Tribune and a regular political commentator.

He also presents The Hard Shoulder on Newstalk and will also stay on in that role while hosting The Tonight Show.

Commenting on the news, he said: ‘I’ve really enjoyed hosting The Tonight Show over the past while, so I’m delighted to be taking it on full time.

Shane Coleman at the ladies Christmas lunch at the Westbury hotel in Dublin in aid of Parentline and Children in Hospital. Pic: Justin Farrelly.
Shane Coleman at the ladies Christmas lunch at the Westbury hotel in Dublin in aid of Parentline and Children in Hospital. Pic: Justin Farrelly.

‘It’s a hugely important space for discussion and debate, and it plays a big role in how we talk about the issues in that matter.’

He went on to say that he aims to build on the existing platform and bring new viewers to the programme that ‘feels in tune with what’s happening across the country’.

Ciara Kelly and Shane Coleman are set to co-present The Hard Shoulder from February 2026. Pic: Newstalk
Ciara Kelly and Shane Coleman are set to co-present The Hard Shoulder from February 2026. Pic: Newstalk

His thoughts were echoed by the Head of News for Virgin Media Television, Ruari Carroll, who described Shane as having ‘a deep understanding of current affairs.’