Musician Stella Bass discusses her career, influences, and her new album 'Look for the Silver Lining,' which features a mix of jazz standards and original songs. The conversation covers her love of jazz, the 1990s musical scene, the Berlin cabaret show, the creative process behind the album, and her experiences as a female musician in Ireland. The album includes collaborations with The Johnny Taylor Trio and showcases a variety of musical styles.

Graham Bonnett, renowned for his powerful voice, discusses his musical journey, including his influences, vocal development, and experiences with bands like Rainbow and Alcatrazz. He shares insights on recording techniques, maintaining vocal health, and offers advice to emerging rock vocalists. Bonnett also talks about his current projects and the future of rock music.

Emphasizes the importance of fire safety in the home, offering practical tips such as installing smoke alarms, planning escape routes, practicing kitchen caution, maintaining electrical and heating safety, using candles responsibly, and educating children about fire hazards. Highlights the significance of regular drills and preventive measures to ensure a safe living environment.

Graphic designer Simon Roche discusses his career journey, from design college to working with international clients and Irish businesses. He shares insights on the evolving graphic design industry, including the use of DIY design platforms like Canva and the growing role of AI in art and design. The conversation also touches on his work with Bureau and his current media interests.

The BBC faces criticism for an inappropriate question posed to Irish actor Andrew Scott about Barry Keoghan's nude scene in the film 'Saltburn' during the Baftas. The question, asked by BBC entertainment correspondent Colin Paterson, led to discomfort and backlash from other media and critics. The incident reportedly caused Scott to walk away from further interviews, with commentators calling the line of questioning lazy and embarrassing. The BBC has not responded to the controversy.

The BBC is facing calls to apologize to actor Andrew Scott after he was asked an inappropriate question about Barry Keoghan's nude dance scene in the film 'Saltburn' during the Baftas red carpet. The question, which referenced prosthetics, made Scott uncomfortable and led to him walking away, potentially affecting other media's opportunities to interview him. The incident was criticized by Newstalk reporter Henry McKean and UK theatre critic Mark Shenton. The BBC has not issued a comment on the matter.

Shane MacGowan was deeply affected by the death of his close friend Sinead O'Connor in July. The two had a long-standing friendship marked by both collaboration and conflict, particularly over Shane's drug use. Sinead once reported Shane to the police to help him overcome his heroin addiction, a move that initially angered him but later earned his gratitude. Despite their ups and downs, they remained close friends, often performing together and supporting each other through personal tragedies. Shane's wife, Victoria Mary Clarke, also shared in the sorrow of Sinead's passing, highlighting the deep bond between the three.

Shane MacGowan, the iconic frontman of The Pogues, has passed away at 65 after battling health issues for eight years. Known for his legendary song 'Fairytale of New York,' MacGowan's life was marked by his musical genius and hard-partying lifestyle. His wife, Victoria Mary Clarke, and family shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting his impact on music and culture. President Michael D Higgins praised MacGowan's lyrical talent and his ability to connect Irish people globally. Despite his struggles with addiction and health, MacGowan's contributions to music will be remembered for generations.

Shane MacGowan, the iconic frontman of The Pogues, has passed away at the age of 65 after an eight-year battle with health issues, including viral encephalitis. Known for his legendary song 'Fairytale of New York,' MacGowan's life was marked by his hard-partying lifestyle and immense musical talent. His wife, Victoria Mary Clarke, and other close family members expressed their deep sorrow and paid heartfelt tributes. President Michael D. Higgins praised MacGowan's genius and his contributions to Irish music and culture. Despite his struggles with addiction and health, MacGowan's legacy in music remains influential and celebrated worldwide.

Shane MacGowan, the iconic frontman of The Pogues, passed away at the age of 65 due to pneumonia after battling viral encephalitis. His wife, Victoria Mary Clarke, and family were by his side. Victoria shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting their deep love and his significant impact on music. Shane's death has been mourned by many, including notable friends and musicians. Born in Kent and raised in Tipperary, Shane was known for blending his Irish roots with punk rock, revolutionizing Irish music globally. His passing marks the end of an era for fans and the music community.

Shane MacGowan, the iconic singer of The Pogues, has died at age 65 after an eight-year health battle. He passed away peacefully with his family by his side. His wife, Victoria, expressed her deep sorrow and gratitude for the joy Shane brought to the world. President Michael D Higgins praised Shane's lyrical genius, which connected Irish people globally. Shane's influence on music is highlighted by his timeless Christmas hit 'Fairytale of New York' and other songs that will endure for years to come. Shane is survived by his wife, sister, and father, and his life was marked by his musical achievements despite struggles with substance abuse and health issues.

Ian Sanders, host and producer of the Cold War Conversations podcast, discusses his lifelong fascination with the Cold War, the origins and key moments of the conflict, and the importance of documenting first-hand accounts. The conversation covers topics such as the transition from bombers to missiles, proxy wars like Korea and Vietnam, the significance of Berlin, and the impact of the Warsaw Pact's collapse. The podcast, which started in 2018, has surpassed 2 million downloads as of May 2022.

Shane MacGowan, the legendary frontman of The Pogues, completed recording his final solo album before his death at age 65. The album, featuring 15 tracks, includes collaborations with former Pogues members and other musicians. Johnny Cronin, who worked closely with MacGowan, revealed that despite his illness, MacGowan maintained a strong voice and creative energy. The album, which includes original songs and covers, is expected to generate worldwide interest. MacGowan's friends and collaborators are deeply affected by his passing but are committed to honoring his legacy through the release of this final work.

Keith Duffy hints at a potential Boyzone reunion if a new Sky TV documentary about the band gains popularity, similar to the recent success of a Wham! documentary. The three-part series will explore Boyzone's journey from small gigs in Ireland to international fame, while also touching on the tragic loss of band member Stephen Gately. The documentary aims to capture the band's story and reach a wide audience, with interviews already underway. Despite their split in 2018, the band members continue to pursue individual careers, with Duffy expressing nostalgia for their boyband days and acknowledging their influence on fellow Irish band Westlife.

Michael Flatley, the renowned Riverdance star, has updated fans on his health following an aggressive cancer diagnosis. He shared a photo indicating his release from the hospital and expressed gratitude for the global support. Flatley, who previously battled skin cancer, emphasized the life-changing impact of his diagnosis. Additionally, he discussed the success of his long-delayed film 'Blackbird' and revealed plans for a sequel, highlighting the involvement of new actors and producers.

Michael Redmond, known for his role in 'Father Ted,' reveals that the BBC banned his radio comedy 'Eamon Older Brother Of Jesus,' which he believes could have made him as successful as Alan Partridge. The comedy, which portrayed the holy family as Irish, was deemed blasphemous by the BBC. Redmond has now turned the scripts into a book available on Kindle, hoping to finally share the story with fans.

Dancing With The Stars judge Loraine Barry reveals that contestants are studying past seasons to improve their chances of winning. She praises singer Erica Cody for her impressive samba performance and expresses confidence in Matthew McNabb's improvement despite his low score. Barry also highlights the inclusion of Paralympic swimmer Ellen Keane, the first dancer with a disability on the show, and shares her excitement about the show's return after a hiatus due to Covid-19.

Virgin Media boss Bill Malone criticizes RTE's Late Late Show for lacking engagement without a live audience, attributing the issue to COVID-19 restrictions. He suggests that RTE could learn from Virgin Media's The Masked Singer, which has creatively managed audience limitations. Ryan Tubridy, host of the Late Late Show, acknowledges the challenges and hopes for a return of live audiences later in the season.

Hugh Wallace, a TV architect, criticizes the lack of accountability in the Mica scandal, calling it a disgrace and questioning why no one is in jail. The government has approved a €2.2 billion redress scheme for affected homeowners, primarily in Donegal, Mayo, and the northwest. Wallace's new show, My Bungalow Bliss, has outperformed other popular TV programs, focusing on transforming bungalows and inspired by the late architect Jack Fitzsimons. The show has received mixed reactions, with some bungalow owners objecting to its portrayal of their homes.

Eileen Grace, widow of the beloved Irish comedian Brendan Grace, shares her emotional journey of feeling lost in Dublin without him but finds solace in a new exhibition celebrating his life and career. The exhibition, held at the Newbridge Silverware Museum in Co Kildare, features costumes, memorabilia, and recordings of Brendan's performances. Eileen describes the exhibition as therapeutic, bringing back fond memories and making her feel his presence. The article highlights Brendan's impact on fans and his continued influence through social media and upcoming releases, such as a new vinyl compilation of his songs.

Five new professional dancers, including two 19-year-old talents, are set to join the Irish version of Dancing With The Stars, aiming to attract a younger audience. The new dancers, Hannah Kelly and Ervinas Merfeldas, along with other seasoned professionals, bring a mix of ballroom, Latin, and hip hop styles. The show aims to modernize and continue for multiple seasons, with the new line-up expected to inject fresh energy. The pro dancers' celebrity partners will be revealed in the New Year, with a diverse group of 12 stars set to compete.

Twink, also known as Adele King, adopted two Yorkshire Terriers, Neili and Tuddy, from the DSPCA after the death of her beloved dog Teddy. The adoption is described as a 'Christmas miracle' by animal rescuer Tara Lafferty. The two dogs, who couldn't be separated, have seamlessly integrated into Twink's home, which already includes other pets. The article highlights Twink's deep understanding and commitment to animal welfare, as well as the emotional connection she feels with her pets.

The estate of late rock star Prince has prohibited the use of Sinead O'Connor's iconic song 'Nothing Compares 2 U' in the documentary 'Nothing Compares,' directed by Kathryn Ferguson. The film, which has received critical acclaim at the Sundance Festival, explores Sinead's tumultuous life, including her rise to fame, her outspoken stance on clerical abuse, and her infamous act of tearing up a photo of Pope John Paul II on 'Saturday Night Live.' Despite the ban, the documentary continues to garner positive reviews. Sinead's complex relationship with Prince and her reflections on his death are also highlighted.

Natty Wailer, former bandmate of Bob Marley, is battling lung cancer in Dublin with the support of friends and the community. Diagnosed four years ago, his condition has worsened, requiring costly treatments and 24-hour care after a recent stroke. Friends have set up a GoFundMe page to help with medical bills, and Bohemians FC, a club he supports, has also joined the effort.

Dancing With The Stars contestants Erica Cody and Billy McGuinness share how the RTE dance show provided them with a crucial opportunity after the COVID-19 pandemic halted live performances. Erica, a rising R&B singer, and Billy, a guitarist from Aslan, express their excitement and gratitude for participating in the show. They discuss their experiences, the challenges of performing in a new medium, and their potential future collaboration in music. Erica also highlights her support for Black Lives Matter and addresses broader social issues in Ireland, including racism and violence against women.

Dancing With The Stars executives have banned professional dancers from teaching in dance schools to prevent Covid-19 infections. This unprecedented move aims to protect the show's participants, following a positive test from Love Island star Matt MacNabb. Despite vaccinations, RTE is enforcing strict measures, including movement restrictions for the pros during the show's three-month run. The decision impacts the dancers' livelihoods but is deemed necessary to avoid disruptions similar to those experienced by BBC's Strictly Come Dancing last season.

Comedian Neil Delamere plans to incorporate his experiences from Dancing With The Stars into his comedy routines. Despite the challenges and nerves associated with the show, he finds the glitz and glamour to be a rich source of comedic material. Delamere's participation has significantly raised his profile, leading to increased public recognition and a major upcoming solo show in Belfast. He remains optimistic and enjoys the experience, regardless of the competition's outcome.

Missy Keating will form the youngest ever partnership on Dancing with the Stars, paired with 19-year-old Ervinas Merfeldas. RTE aims to attract a younger audience with this pairing. Other notable pairings include Ellen Keane with Stephen Vincent, Aengus Mac Grianna with Emily Barker, Jordan Conroy with Salome Chachua, Gráinne Seoige with John Nolan, and Nicolas Roche with Karen Byrne. The show will implement strict health and safety procedures due to rising Covid figures, including no group dances.

Brendan O'Carroll was praised by Rory Cowan for donating €50,000 to St Vincent de Paul, despite not earning much due to the pandemic. The donation was highlighted on the Late Late Show, impressing host Ryan Tubridy and viewers. Rory emphasized the significance of the donation, given Brendan's limited earnings from the Mrs Brown Christmas specials. A dispute arose between Rory and Damien McKiernan, who criticized public charity acts as PR stunts.

RTE has announced the pairings for the upcoming season of Dancing With The Stars, featuring a mix of reality TV stars and professional dancers. Notable pairings include Love Island's Matthew MacNabb with Laura Nolan, and author Cathy Kelly with Maurizio Benenato. The show aims to attract a younger audience with new participants like Missy Keating and Ervinas Merfeldas. Betting odds are already being placed, with Cathy Kelly gaining support. The article highlights the excitement and competitive spirit among the participants.

Author Cathy Kelly was the first to be eliminated from the fifth series of Dancing With The Stars after scoring 15 points for her tango with dance partner Maurizio Benenato. Despite her disappointment, she expressed gratitude for the experience. The show featured various performances, with judges providing mixed critiques. Notable mentions include Ellen Keane's 'gold standard' cha cha cha, Neil Delamere's comedic Charleston, and Nina Carberry's high-scoring rumba. The show also addressed Covid-19 protocols, emphasizing strict measures to prevent the spread among participants.

Dave Haslam, a writer, broadcaster, and DJ, discusses his career, including his time at Manchester’s Haçienda nightclub and his influential books on music and nightclubs. The conversation covers his writing and DJ processes, the importance of sharing music, and his experiences in Manchester and with Irish acts. Haslam also talks about his series of small format books and his current reading and listening habits.

Ryan Tubridy, an RTE star, is planning to visit the UK to discuss TV and radio opportunities amid an ongoing pay controversy at RTE. Tubridy and his agent Noel Kelly are reportedly meeting with executives in London to explore options. Despite the controversy, UK broadcasters are interested in Tubridy, who has not made any decisions about his future with RTE. Tubridy, who has expressed a desire to stay close to his daughters in Ireland, and Kelly have offered to cooperate with the Oireachtas Media Committee's investigation into the matter.

John Erickson, a seasoned journalist, discusses his new book 'When Mortals Play God,' which chronicles the impact of eugenics on four generations of his family. The narrative highlights the tragic consequences of local government interference, including the victimization of his grandmother Rose DeChaine. Despite the adversities, the story is one of triumph and resilience. Key family members such as Mary, Ernie, Robert, and Millie are discussed, with Millie still leading a vibrant life at 101. The conversation also touches on the possibility of a separate story about his mother.

Award-winning author and journalist Clodagh Finn discusses her book 'Through Her Eyes – A New History of Ireland in 21 Women,' which highlights the stories of twenty-one remarkable women who shaped Ireland's history. The conversation delves into the motivations behind the book, the selection process for the women featured, and detailed discussions on three specific women: the Woman of the Burren, Aoife MacMurrough, and Jennie Hodgers. Clodagh also shares insights into her future projects and current interests.

Naturalist Donald Hobern discusses the origins and evolution of insects, their ecological roles, and their potential applications in medical science. The conversation covers topics such as the historical dominance of insects, the impact of pesticides, genome studies, and the use of insects as a food source. Hobern shares his expertise on Lepidoptera, DNA barcoding, and species detection, providing a comprehensive overview of the significance of insects in various ecosystems.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist of the Irish band The Script, has died at the age of 46 after a short illness. The band, known for hits like Breakeven, confirmed his death, requesting privacy during this time. Sheehan co-founded The Script with Danny O’Donoghue and later recruited drummer Glen Power. He was a father of three and spent much of his time in the US with his wife, Reena. The Script has sold over 20 million albums and was set to support Pink on a European tour this June. The article was originally published by The Sun.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist of the Irish band The Script, has died after a short illness. The band, known for hits like Breakeven, confirmed his death. Sheehan was a co-founder of The Script and previously part of the boy band Mytown with Danny O’Donoghue. He leaves behind his wife Reena and three children. The Script, which has sold over 20 million albums, was set to support Pink on a European tour this June. Tributes have been paid by devastated fans and the music industry.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist of the Irish band The Script, has died at the age of 46 after a short illness. The band, known for hits like Breakeven, confirmed his death, requesting privacy. Sheehan, a father of three, had taken time off to be with his family. The Script, which Sheehan co-founded, has sold over 20 million albums and was set to support Pink on a European tour. Tributes have been paid by devastated fans and the music industry.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist of the Irish band The Script, has died at the age of 46 after a short illness. The band and his family have requested privacy during this time. Tributes have been pouring in from fans and figures in the music industry, including Hozier, Calum Scott, Jedward, Danny O'Reilly, and Imelda May. President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, also expressed his condolences, highlighting Mark's contributions to Irish music. The Script, known for hits like 'The Man Who Can’t be Moved' and 'Hall of Fame', had sold over 20 million albums and were set to join Pink on a European tour this June.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist and co-founder of the Irish band The Script, has died at the age of 46 after a short illness. The band confirmed his death and requested privacy for his family. Sheehan, who was also a husband and father of three, had taken time off from the band to be with his family. Tributes have poured in from fans and the music industry. The Script, known for hits like 'Breakeven' and 'Hall of Fame,' had been scheduled to tour Europe with Pink this summer.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist of the Irish band The Script, has died at 46 after a short illness. The band confirmed his death and requested privacy. Sheehan co-founded The Script in 2001 with Danny O'Donoghue and Glen Power. Tributes have poured in from fans and the music industry. Sheehan, a father of three, had taken time off to be with his family. The Script, known for hits like 'Breakeven' and 'Hall of Fame,' were set to tour Europe with Pink this summer.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist of the Irish band The Script, has died at 46 after a short illness. The band and fans worldwide are mourning his loss. Sheehan co-founded The Script in 2001 with Danny O'Donoghue and Glen Power. He was a devoted family man, taking time off from touring to be with his wife Reena and their three children. Tributes have poured in from fellow musicians and public figures, highlighting Sheehan's talent and impact on the music industry. The Script, known for hits like 'The Man Who Can’t be Moved' and 'Hall of Fame,' had been set to tour with Pink this summer.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist and co-founder of the Irish band The Script, has died at the age of 46 after a short illness. The band confirmed his death and requested privacy for his family. Sheehan, who was also a husband and father of three, co-founded The Script in 2001 with Danny O'Donoghue and Glen Power. Tributes have poured in from fans and the music industry. The Script, known for hits like 'Breakeven' and 'Hall of Fame,' had been scheduled to tour Europe with Pink this summer.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist and co-founder of the Irish band The Script, has died at the age of 46 after a short illness. The band confirmed his passing and requested privacy for his family. Sheehan, who co-founded the band in 2001, was a beloved husband, father, and friend. Tributes have poured in from fans and the music industry. Sheehan had taken time off from touring to be with his family, but the band continued their American tour without him. The Script, known for hits like 'Breakeven' and 'Hall of Fame,' were set to tour Europe with Pink this summer.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist of the Irish band The Script, has died at 46 after a short illness. The band confirmed his death and requested privacy. Sheehan co-founded The Script in 2001 with Danny O'Donoghue and Glen Power. Tributes have poured in from fans and the music industry. Sheehan, a father of three, had taken time off to be with his family. The Script, known for hits like 'Breakeven' and 'Hall of Fame,' were set to tour Europe with Pink this summer.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist of the Irish band The Script, has died at 46 after a short illness. The band and fans worldwide mourn his loss, highlighting his contributions to music and his role as a co-founder of The Script. Tributes from fellow musicians and public figures, including President Michael D Higgins, emphasize his talent, kindness, and impact on the music industry. Sheehan is survived by his wife Reena and their three children.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist and co-founder of the Irish band The Script, has died at the age of 46 after a short illness. The band confirmed his death and requested privacy for his family. Sheehan, who was also a husband and father of three, co-founded The Script in 2001 with Danny O'Donoghue and Glen Power. Tributes have poured in from fans and the music industry. The band was set to tour Europe with Pink this summer.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist and co-founder of the Irish band The Script, has died at the age of 46 after a short illness. The band confirmed his death and requested privacy for his family. Sheehan, who was also a husband and father of three, co-founded The Script in 2001 with Danny O'Donoghue and Glen Power. Tributes have poured in from fans and the music industry. The Script, known for hits like 'Breakeven' and 'Hall of Fame,' had been scheduled to tour Europe with Pink this summer.

Mark Sheehan, guitarist and co-founder of the Irish band The Script, has died at 46 after a short illness. The band, known for hits like 'Breakeven' and 'The Man Who Can’t be Moved,' confirmed his passing and requested privacy. Sheehan, who co-founded the band with Danny O'Donoghue, had taken time off recently to be with his family. Tributes from fans and the music industry have poured in, celebrating his contributions and legacy. The Script was set to tour Europe with Pink this summer.

Justin Middleton, a seasoned rugby commentator with a lifelong passion for the sport, is now based in Ireland and provides commentary for national and international games. He shares his experiences and insights into the world of sports commentary, discussing the excitement of match build-ups, his journey into the profession, the influence of his accent on his style, and the importance of preparation and discipline. The podcast also touches on what Justin is currently watching or listening to.

Daniel Whiteson, a Physics professor at UC Irvine and a fellow of the American Physical Society, discusses his work and interests in astrophysics. He co-hosts the popular science podcast 'Daniel and Jorge Explain the Universe' and has co-authored a book titled 'Frequently Asked Questions about the Universe.' The conversation covers topics such as the progress of his podcast, new developments at CERN, funding for astrophysics projects, potential threats from space, and the future of astrophysics. Whiteson is portrayed as an engaging and knowledgeable guest.

The interview with journalist Cristina Maza explores the current political landscape in the United States, focusing on the internal divisions within the Republican Party, the rise of far-right elements, and their impact on US foreign policy. The discussion also covers the US's involvement in Ukraine, the status of the American Green Party, and the future of women in US politics. Cristina provides insights into potential Democratic challengers to President Biden in the next presidential election.

Clare Mulley, an author and broadcaster focusing on female experiences during World War II, discusses her books 'The Women Who Flew for Hitler' and 'The Spy Who Loved' on The Comfortable Spot Podcast. The former details the lives of Nazi Germany's only two female test pilots, Hanna Reitsch and Melitta von Stauffenberg, while the latter tells the story of Polish-born British special agent Krystyna Skarbek. The conversation explores the roles of women in war, the challenges they faced, and their legacies.

John Lydon, former Sex Pistols frontman, is competing against pop band Wild Youth to represent Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest. Lydon's band, Public Image Limited, has submitted the song 'Hawaii', a personal tribute to his wife. Wild Youth, a Dublin-based band, is also vying for the spot with their song 'We Are One'. The selection will be part of a special Eurosong event, with the winner representing Ireland in Liverpool. The article highlights Lydon's previous attempt to represent Ireland and his strong Irish roots.

Professor Pat O’Connor, an expert in gender studies and women's rights, discusses Ireland's progressive stance on gender issues, the controversial statistics of sexual assaults in Irish colleges, and the online reactions by men to violence against women. The conversation also touches on the potential impact of more women in prominent positions in politics and religion in Ireland.

Becky Holmes, an influencer and author, works to expose online romance fraudsters who use fake relationships to extort money. Through social media, she raises awareness by sharing her interactions with these scammers. In a podcast interview, Becky discusses her campaign, the challenges she faces, the role of police in handling such fraud, and her forthcoming book 'Keanu Reeves Is NOT In Love With You'. The conversation also covers the evolution of scams with modern technology and advice for avoiding them.

Suswati Basu, an award-winning journalist, editor, and podcast host, shares her journey into media and journalism, her experiences living in China, and her advocacy for women's and disabled rights. The conversation covers her chronic pain condition, the impact of stress and trauma, and the concept behind her podcast 'How to Be.' The discussion also touches on the positive use of social media, the challenges of podcasting, creative expectations, and the feminist movement.

Michael Palmer, a liberally minded Unionist from Newtownards, Northern Ireland, and a member of the LGBT community, discusses the need for Unionist parties to modernize and reflect societal changes. As an active member of the Ulster Unionist Party, he addresses the lack of women in the Northern Ireland assembly and the importance of involving more young Unionists and LGBT individuals in politics. The interview covers his views on the future of Northern Ireland, his personal experiences, and his interests outside of politics.

Kevin Meagher, author and commentator on Irish and British politics, discusses the future of the union between Ireland and the United Kingdom, focusing on the potential for Irish unity. He shares his background, political involvement with the British Labour Party, and his views on Irish politics. Meagher, advocating for Irish unity, has outlined a roadmap to a united Ireland in his book. The conversation also touches on the implications of a Scottish independence referendum for Ireland.

Michael Lewis, a seasoned soccer journalist based in New York, discusses the evolution of soccer in North America, including the rise and fall of the North American Soccer League, the establishment of Major League Soccer, and the growing prominence of women's soccer. The conversation also touches on the historical and future World Cup events in the USA and Michael's latest book on the Rochester Lancers.

Journalist Tina Lee, originally from the USA and now based in Berlin, specializes in migration, human rights, politics, and the far right. She has worked for Human Rights Watch and The Balkan Investigative Reporting Network and is currently the editor-in-chief of Unbias The News, a platform for journalists facing structural barriers. Tina also offers training in cross-border and collaborative journalism and has been involved with Hostwriter, a network supporting international collaborative journalism. The discussion covers various topics, including the role of Twitter in journalism, the importance of fixers, issues of consent in photojournalism, and the differences between US and European media, particularly regarding public funding.

Historian, writer, and podcaster Katja Hoyer discusses her podcast 'Tommies and Jerries' and her book 'Blood and Iron: The Rise and Fall of the German Empire 1871-1918'. The conversation covers her non-academic writing style, the definition of modern history, the impact of self-publications on historical records, and the relevance of counterfactual history. The discussion concludes with insights into her current reading and viewing interests and a shared passion for classic cars.

Dr. Fergal Lenehan, a researcher at the University of Jena, Germany, discusses his academic journey, the benefits of the Erasmus programme, and Ireland's position in the EU. He also talks about his book, Reclaiming the European Street, and his research project, ReDICo. The conversation touches on cultural comparisons between Germany and Ireland and concludes with reflections on his connection to Ireland.

TedFest, the festival celebrating the iconic show 'Father Ted', is set to return to Inis Mór on the Aran Islands after being postponed due to the pandemic. Founder Peter Philips dismisses concerns about the show being affected by 'woke' culture, noting that the event attracts a young audience familiar with the episodes. Despite content warnings on two episodes by Channel 4, Philips believes 'Father Ted' is not one of the shows that should carry a warning. The festival will run from March 3rd to 6th, with original cast members Joe Rooney and Patrick McDonell confirmed to attend.

Fans of Dancing With The Stars are eager for Lottie Ryan and Jennifer Zamparelli to co-host the show, similar to Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman on Strictly. Lottie Ryan received positive feedback for her natural and fun presenting style when she filled in for Jennifer, who was absent due to Covid. Bookmakers Paddy Power have even set odds for a future partnership. Despite changes in the show's lineup, insiders suggest Nicky Byrne is not leaving, but Lottie could be a potential replacement. The article also touches on the recent eliminations and voting dynamics of the show.

Brendan O'Carroll's Mrs Brown character will star alongside Tyler Perry's Madea in the upcoming Netflix film 'A Madea Homecoming,' debuting in February. The film, which includes an LGBTQ storyline, aims to bring laughter to a polarized world. Tyler Perry revived his Madea character to provide comic relief during challenging times. Brendan's wife, Jenny Gibney, will also feature in the film.

Matthew MacNabb and his dance partner Laura Nolan have dismissed romance rumors despite their on-screen chemistry on DWTS. Both discussed their relationship statuses, with Laura revealing her complicated situation. The pair faced criticism from judges Arthur Gourounlian and Brian Redmond after a challenging week of rehearsals due to Covid-19. Despite scoring low, they remain optimistic about future performances.

Dancing With The Stars experienced technical difficulties with sound synchronization but recovered to showcase a record-scoring first dance routine by Erica Cody. The episode featured performances from Aengus Mac Grianna, Matthew MacNabb, Jordan Conroy, Billy McGuinness, and Ellen Keane, with judges providing feedback. Erica Cody achieved the highest score for a first dance in the show's history, while the next episode will see the first elimination based on audience scores.

Preparations for the opening episode of RTE's Dancing with the Stars have been disrupted after professional dancer Emily Barker and contestant Matthew MacNabb tested positive for COVID-19. This has led to significant changes in the show's format, including the isolation of close contacts and the implementation of strict health measures. The show will feature a mixed-sex group of dancers instead of the planned male-only group. Despite the challenges, the production team emphasizes the safety of the dance floor and the importance of seizing the moment. The new season will see 12 contestants, including Paralympic gold medallist Ellen Keane, who aims to represent people with disabilities.

Sinead O'Connor's 17-year-old son, Shane, has died, with the singer expressing her profound grief and paying tribute to him as the 'light of her life.' Shane had been missing since Thursday, prompting a search by Gardai, who later confirmed his death after finding a body in Wicklow. Tributes and condolences have poured in from various public figures, highlighting the widespread sorrow and support for Sinead and her family during this tragic time.

Sinead O'Connor announced the death of her 17-year-old son Shane, expressing profound grief and paying tribute to him as the 'light of her life.' Shane had been missing since Thursday, and his body was found in the Bray area of Wicklow. The Gardai had issued an appeal for his whereabouts before confirming his death. Tributes and condolences poured in from various celebrities and public figures, highlighting the widespread sorrow and support for Sinead and her family during this tragic time.

Sinead O'Connor's 17-year-old son, Shane, has died, leading to an outpouring of grief and tributes. Shane had been missing since Thursday, and his body was found in Bray, Wicklow. Sinead expressed her deep sorrow on social media, calling Shane the 'light of her life.' The Gardai had been involved in the search for Shane, who had been missing from Tallaght, South Dublin. Tributes from various public figures and fans have been pouring in, expressing condolences and support for Sinead and her family.

Sinead O'Connor's 17-year-old son, Shane, has died, leading to an outpouring of grief and tributes. Shane had been missing since Thursday, and his body was found in the Bray area of Wicklow. Sinead expressed her deep sorrow and love for her son on social media, urging others not to follow his example. The Gardai had been actively searching for Shane, and his death has prompted condolences from various public figures and fans. Shane was the son of Sinead and musician Donal Lunny, and his death has left his family heartbroken.

Ray Foley is set to rejoin Today FM, succeeding Mairead Ronan. Foley, who previously left the station in 2012, is moving from Cork's Red FM to Marconi House in Dublin. The move is speculated to be influenced by radio executive Chris Doyle. Foley's return to Today FM is marked by positive sentiments, reflecting his strong relationship with the station. Despite a challenging stint at 98fm, Foley has no regrets about his career choices and is ready to resume his role at Today FM.

RTE has announced its 2022 TV schedule, featuring the return of Tommy Tiernan's chat show, which competes with Ryan Tubridy's Late Late Show. The schedule includes various programs such as Dancing With The Stars, Operation Transformation, and the drama Smother. Kathryn Thomas will join Operation Transformation after giving birth. RTE documentaries will cover topics from the Anglo-Irish Treaty to the story of journalist Donie O’Sullivan. Sports coverage will include GAA Club Championships and UEFA Champions League. RTE Radio 1 will feature a documentary on the Saw Doctors and continue to reflect national views with Joe Duffy's Liveline.

RTE faces significant challenges in keeping 'Dancing With The Stars' on air amid rising Covid-19 cases and the Omicron variant. Unlike 'Glow Up Ireland,' DWTS runs live, necessitating strict health protocols. Measures include no group dances and forming bubbles of four. RTE has avoided vaccine controversies by ensuring all dance professionals are vaccinated. Five new professional dancers, including two teenagers, will join the show to attract a younger audience. The show aims to modernize and continue for multiple seasons.

Melanie Verwoerd, former South African Ambassador to Ireland and partner of the late Gerry Ryan, shared anecdotes about Archbishop Desmond Tutu, including an interruption by burlesque dancers during a political discussion in Dublin and a humorous prayer incident with Bono. She reflected on her time with Tutu, who passed away on St Stephen's Day, and her own experiences as an ambassador and in her relationship with Ryan. Tutu had contributed to her memoir 'When We Dance', which details her life in South Africa and with Ryan.

Phil Lynott outsmarted the Garda drug squad during a raid at his birthday party, as revealed in the RTE documentary 'How Ireland Rocked The 70’s'. The film highlights the challenges faced by Irish rock bands in the 1970s, including The Boomtown Rats' struggle to perform in Dublin despite opposition. The documentary also celebrates successful Irish rock festivals, such as the Macroom Festival headlined by Rory Gallagher, which paved the way for future music events in Ireland.

A heated dispute has erupted between Mrs Brown's Boys stars Rory Cowan and Damien McKiernan over comments made by McKiernan about Brendan O'Carroll's charity work. McKiernan accused O'Carroll of using his charity efforts for self-promotion, which Cowan vehemently denied, defending O'Carroll's long-term support for St Vincent de Paul. The charity has praised O'Carroll's contributions, highlighting his significant financial support and fundraising efforts. The row underscores ongoing tensions between McKiernan and the Mrs Brown's Boys team.

A heated dispute has erupted between 'Mrs Brown's Boys' stars Rory Cowan and Damien McKiernan over comments made by McKiernan regarding Brendan O'Carroll's charity efforts. McKiernan accused O'Carroll of using his charity work for self-promotion, which Cowan vehemently denied, defending O'Carroll's long-term support for St Vincent de Paul. The charity has praised O'Carroll's contributions, highlighting his significant financial support. The row underscores ongoing tensions between McKiernan and the 'Mrs Brown's Boys' team.

Andrea Corr expresses joy for Britney Spears' newfound freedom from her father's conservatorship, contrasting it with the love and care she received from her own parents. She empathizes with Britney's public struggles and recalls a positive encounter with her in 2000. Andrea also discusses her involvement with Our Lady’s Hospice, inspired by the care her parents received, and reflects on her memoir, which won a major literary prize.

Comedian Pat Shortt is touring Ireland with his daughter Faye in a new show called 'Well', reminiscent of his early days with D'Unbelievables. The duo will perform at Dublin's 3Olympia Theatre and other venues. Pat expresses excitement about working with Faye, likening it to his past collaboration with Jon Kenny. Faye, a Gaiety School of Acting graduate, enjoys the partnership and dismisses the idea of touring with younger performers. The show features a mix of comedy and character performances, with Pat confident in its appeal. The article highlights the family's involvement in their creative endeavors.

Andrea Corr shares her deep friendship with the Rolling Stones, particularly Ronnie Wood, with whom she recently recorded a duet of Elvis Presley's 'Blue Christmas' for charity. The collaboration supports Our Lady’s Hospice in Dublin, an organization Andrea holds dear. She reflects on the impact of the hospice, her late parents, and her personal experiences with loss. Andrea also comments on a recent incident involving journalist Matt Doran and Adele, and discusses the importance of interviewers being well-prepared. Her memoir, 'Barefoot Pilgrimage,' which details her private struggles, has resonated with many readers.

Niall Boylan and Adrian Kennedy, long-time professional rivals in Irish radio, will now share hosting duties on Ireland’s Classic Hits radio station. The show, previously known as The Niall Boylan Show, has been renamed Late Night Live. Boylan will host the show on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, while Kennedy will take over on Wednesday evenings. Despite their rivalry, both presenters express a personal rapport. Boylan continues to host a morning show and is under contract for another year and a half, while Kennedy prioritizes his Opinions Matter podcast. A station spokesman highlighted the excitement of live radio with the two presenters, anticipating a treat for listeners in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, and Clare.

Almost half a million viewers tuned into RTE's series 'The Case I Can’t Forget,' which featured the brutal murder of Rachel Callaly by her husband Joe O’Reilly. The show highlighted the investigation led by retired detective Pat Marry and the efforts of the Gardai. The series also revealed O’Reilly's deceitful actions towards Rachel's mother, Rose. The Irish Sun's new podcast, 'The Making of a Detective,' further explores this case and other notable murder investigations.

Dancing with the Stars will feature Italian ballroom champion Maurizio Benenato in the upcoming season, following the departure of Kai Widdrington to BBC's Strictly Come Dancing. Maurizio, known for his ballroom and Latin dance skills, is expected to be a popular addition to the show. The show is undergoing significant changes, including new dancers and strict Covid-19 protocols. RTE aims to avoid the vaccine controversy faced by the BBC. DWTS boss Larry Bass acknowledges the loss of Kai but is optimistic about the fresh talent joining the show.

Red Hurley shared how Dickie Rock confided in him about a hearing problem that ended his career. Despite their long-standing rivalry, Dickie turned to Red when he realized he could no longer sing in tune. Red recounted a concert in Spain where he first noticed Dickie's tuning issues. He supported Dickie's decision to cancel upcoming concerts but encouraged him to seek further medical advice. Red also highlighted Dickie's generosity and their shared experiences in the music industry. Additionally, Red discussed his wife's recovery from Covid-19 and his eagerness to return to performing.

Ryan Tubridy promises a 'Hakuna Matata' moment for Irish families with a Lion King-themed Late Late Toy Show, aiming to lift spirits after a challenging year of lockdowns and COVID-19 restrictions. The show will feature Tubridy singing and dancing, with segments filmed across Ireland. Tubridy emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses over multinational firms like Amazon. The Toy Show Appeal returns, aiming to raise funds for Irish charities, benefiting hundreds of thousands of children and families. The show airs at 9.35pm on RTE One.