Last year RTE’s Toy Show on the Late Late show topped the TAM ratings for the year with 1.7 million viewers. The show also raised €6.6 million for charity and made household names of Adam King, Saoirse Ruane and Michael Maloney.
Remember What Happened Last Year on The Late Late Toy Show
This year there is every chance that the show could be even bigger than 2020, such is the interest. Adam King (6) told us in 2020 that his greatest wish is to be an astronaut. However, as he has brittle bones, he cannot go into space, but that did not deter him. Instead, he would like to be a Capcom, the ground-based communications crew for the space missions.
His wish was noticed by America’s National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) and it said “can’t wait” for Adam King to “one day join our team of dreamers”.
Adam also got to meet on Zoom, the best-known astronaut in Ireland, Commander Chris Hadfield. The three-times space astronaut, Cmr. Hadfield was very impressed with Adam’s wish to be a Capcom, and said he was “inspiring.” He chatted with Adam and gave him some advice on his future career.
Such was his profile over the last year that Adam even received a letter from United States President Joe Biden, praising him for his great work introducing his virtual hugs to the nation during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Adam’s dad, David has recently published a book, A Hug for You and it is a picture book inspired by Adam’s real-life adventures. The book was launched earlier this month in the River Lee Hotel, Cork.
Variety’s First Child Ambassador
Saoirse Ruane inspired the audience by talking about how she coped with the loss of her right leg after being diagnosed with a tumour. Her inspiration led Variety Ireland, the international charity, to invite her to be their first child ambassador. The charity helps millions of children around the world with practical support programmes.
An Unexpected Duet With Dermot Kennedy
Can anyone forget the look on MIchael Moloney’s face when he realised that it was Dermot Kennedy singing beside him? It was priceless. Michael has had an incredible year; he released his first song thanks to a gift of studio time from Windmill Lane Studios. All That I Do debuted on the Late Late Show in May and the promo was directed and produced by Kodaline bassist Jay Boland.
Though we have been unable to travel much since March last year, good news does travel around the world. The inspiration of these young people shows us how the world is connected and we wish them lots of luck for the future.
This year will the Late Late Toy Show surpass the amazing stories from last year? We hope so, Ireland is a country full of young talent, no reason why not.
