The Late Late Show return date confirmed and here’s how to be in the audience

With Patrick Kielty hosting for a third season, RTE is now accepting applications to join the live studio audience

The Late Late Show returns to screens very soon, with Patrick Kielty back at the helm for a third season. The Co Down native will host the iconic talk show, which starts on Friday, September 12 on at 9.35pm on RTE One.

Kielty, 54, signed a three-year deal with the show when he took over from Ryan Tubridy in 2023, and over the past two years he’s welcomed a star-studded lineup of guests and musical acts.

As excitement builds ahead of the new season, RTE is inviting the public to apply for free tickets. Anyone aged over 18 can put their name forward to be part of the live studio audience, but the 2025 application form has changed from some previous years, the Irish Mirror reports.

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Hopefuls must now submit an application form, with dozens of questions, before being considered for a seat. It asks questions such ‘Who is your Irish hero?’, ‘ Who are your dream Late Late Show guests?’ and ‘Is there a big life event happening that The Late Late Show could help you celebrate?’

The form also asks ‘What is your best story?’, ‘What is your party piece? Do you have a unique talent?’ and whether you would be ‘happy to take part in a game or chat to Patrick Kielty live on air’.

The RTE application reads: “AND HERE IS YOUR HOST…PATRICK KIELTY! To Whom It Concerns… The Late Late Show is back on your screens this Autumn for a brand-new season with host Patrick Kielty! Patrick will be joined by a host of special guests each Friday night in front of a live studio audience, and we are thrilled to offer YOU and your guest(s) the opportunity to come in and be part of the iconic Late Late Show experience.

“So, if you would like to be part of our studio audience on Friday nights, simply complete the application form below. Please note: If chosen, you will be contacted by a member of our team. You must be over-18 to apply. RTE reserves the right of admission. Tickets are strictly non-transferable. Once you submit, you will not receive a confirmation email. But don’t worry, if you have clicked ‘submit’, we have your application. Looking forward to welcoming you, The Late Late Team.”

You can apply to be in the audience for the Late Late Show here.

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