The Late Late demolition derby

To whom it concerns

Sir, – With the announcement within the past week by two of RTÉ's “big names” excluding themselves from consideration as successors to Ryan Tubridy as presenter of The Late Late Show, is there any possibility that the national broadcaster might recognise the obvious point implicit in these decisions? The Late Late Show has had its day. Yes, it was very good, and yes, it had its role in the societal evolution of our country, but that day ended long ago.

RTÉ's decision making capability is very questionable. The broadcaster believes that we are interested in violent dramas as entertainment, as if the tragedy of the real thing wasn’t enough, that dedicating four hours to an event in Britain which is readily available through other channels here is a good use of public broadcast time, and in this case, perpetuating the “yakety-yak” format that they seem to believe we are seeking on both television and radio. And in the absence of any real feedback mechanism, it is a broadcaster that turns a deaf ear to its customers.

I am not hopeful of any change. – Yours, etc,

T GERARD BENNETT,

READ MORE

Bunbrosna,

Co Westmeath.

Sir, – What colour, pray tell, will the smoke be that emanates, heralding the identity of The Successor? – Yours, etc,

ANNE MARIE KENNEDY,

Craughwell,

Co Galway.

Sir, – Considering all the withdrawals from the race for the Late Late Show, Ross O’Carroll Kelly’s mother may soon be the only one left. – Yours, etc,

TOM FARRELL,

Swords,

Co Dublin.

Sir, – “Flogging a dead horse” comes to mind. Just scrap it. – Yours, etc,

TONY CORCORAN,

Rathfarnham,

Dublin 14.