The RTÉ presenter became visibly emotional as he remembered the Irish athletics star who died aged just 34 following a battle with cancer.
Patrick Kielty fought back tears on Friday night’s Late Late Show as he led a moving tribute to Irish sporting hero Ciara Mageean.
The presenter struggled to hold back his emotions as he introduced three people who knew the beloved Olympian, who sadly passed away last Sunday at the age of 34.
Ciara was due to appear on the programme to discuss her new book, but after her untimely death, the show instead dedicated a special segment to celebrating her remarkable life and legacy.
Introducing Ciara’s friends and fellow athletes Ellen Keane, Thomas Barr and broadcaster Greg Allen, Patrick said: ‘Instead of Ciara lighting up the show tonight, as she did everywhere she went, this evening we’re joined by three people who knew her well to remember an extraordinary athlete, an extraordinary person.’
Fighting back tears, he added that the programme wanted to share the love and warmth that Ciara had planned to bring to the show herself.
The emotional tribute saw her friends reflect on the woman behind the medals, remembering her infectious personality, generosity and enormous pride in representing Ireland.
Ellen Keane spoke about Ciara’s love for her home town of Portaferry and the Irish people, saying she had always done everything for the people she loved.
She said: ‘The thing about Ciara is that everything that she achieved in her life, she did it for the people that she loved.’
Thomas Barr also remembered his friend as someone who brought joy wherever she went, both on and off the athletics track.
He recalled how proud she was to pull on the Irish vest and drape herself in the national flag, but said her personality made her truly unforgettable.
‘Everyone is going to know Ciara for her accolades, but we’re going to remember her and cherish her as a national treasure,’ he said.
Ciara, who represented Ireland at two Olympic Games, became one of the country’s most celebrated athletes after winning European 1500m gold in Rome in 2024.
Her death has prompted an outpouring of grief across Ireland, with tributes pouring in from the sporting world and beyond.
The Portaferry woman had been diagnosed with cancer in 2025 and spoke openly about her illness, inspiring countless people with her courage and determination.
Friday night’s Late Late Show was a poignant reminder that while Ciara’s extraordinary sporting achievements will never be forgotten, it was the person she was who left the deepest impression on those lucky enough to know her.
