Doireann Garrihy returns to RTÉ 2FM to take over the drivetime slot
Doireann Garrihy is making her much-anticipated return to RTÉ 2FM, where she will take over the coveted drivetime slot. The popular presenter, who left the station last year to explore new opportunities, expressed her excitement about reuniting with her listeners and launching her own show.
Garrihy, who spent five years at 2FM before her departure, shared her enthusiasm on Instagram, saying: “Radio is where my heart is, and absence has only made the heart grow fonder. It is an absolute dream come true to have my very own show. I cannot wait to put my own stamp on it, to rise at a reasonable hour, and to be back with you, the listeners.”
Her return comes after a period of flux for the drivetime slot, which has seen a rotating roster of hosts since the sudden departure of The 2 Johnnies last year.
Big Changes for Breakfast
In addition to Garrihy’s comeback, RTÉ 2FM has announced a refreshed breakfast lineup. Carl Mullan, a fan favorite, will be joined by two new co-hosts: Roz Purcell and Aishling Bonner. While Purcell is a familiar face to Irish audiences as a former model and broadcaster, Bonner is a fresh addition, joining from Spin FM.
The trio is set to bring a mix of energy, humor, and personality to the morning airwaves, promising a dynamic start to listeners’ days.
Continuing Favorites and Mid-Morning Programming
Laura Fox will continue her daily mid-morning show from 9 a.m., followed by Tracy Clifford, who remains in her lunchtime slot at 12 p.m. Both presenters are known for their engaging personalities and strong connection with audiences.
Weekend Refresh: New Talent Joins the Roster
RTÉ 2FM’s weekend lineup will also see a significant overhaul, with four new presenters joining the station. Benny Bracken, Helen Galgey, Mikey O’Reilly, and Demi Isaac are set to bring fresh perspectives and diverse voices to the weekend schedule.
Demi Isaac, broadcasting from the Cork studios, and Mikey O’Reilly are among the rising stars selected from an “expressions of interest” competition held last autumn. This initiative reflects the station’s commitment to discovering and showcasing emerging talent.
A Focus on Inclusivity and Irish Music
Dan Healy, Head of RTÉ 2FM, expressed his excitement about the new schedule, which aims to blend familiar favorites with fresh voices. Healy noted: “Designed for today’s audience, the new schedule will have an emphasis on Irish and new music, inclusivity, and original entertainment. We’re thrilled to welcome back Doireann to the drivetime slot and are looking forward to Carl, Roz, and Aishling leading our breakfast show.”
This shift underscores 2FM’s dedication to catering to the tastes of modern listeners while continuing to champion homegrown talent and creativity.
Looking Ahead to February 2025
The new daytime and weekend schedules are set to launch in February 2025, marking an exciting new chapter for RTÉ 2FM. With a mix of seasoned broadcasters, rising stars, and a focus on vibrant, diverse content, the station is poised to captivate its audience throughout the year.
Listeners can look forward to a reinvigorated lineup designed to entertain, inspire, and connect with the Irish public, making 2FM a central part of their daily routines once again.
