After five decades in TV, broadcaster Bill O’Herlihy has retired.
The RTE star, who has brought us through 10 Olympic games and the World Cup, hung up his mic for the final time after the Germany and Argentina World Cup final.
Bill was joined for the last time by his three constant companions; Eamon Dunphy, John Giles and Liam Brady.
The RTE star said he had no regrets about retiring, and said he will always have fond memories.
“I’ve had a fantastic 49 years in RTÉ and been part and parcel in a very minor way in the development of television in terms of news features, current affairs and sport.”
“And I leave with no regrets and very many happy memories.”
Last time: Bill with his co-stars presenting the World Cup coverage | RTE
Celebs from all over the country took to Twitter to say goodbye to the much loved RTE star.
Sile Seoige started off the happy messages, writing:
“Sláinte mhaith @billoherlihy A brilliant broadcaster & a really lovely man. Nà bheidh a leithéid arÃs ann. Here’s to the next chapter!”
“Big happy retirement to Bill O’ Herlihy from @rte .. The internationals & Tournaments just won’t be the same .. Ever,” Nicky Byrne added.
Even Love/Hate star Laurence Kinlan shed a tear:
“I’m not gonna lie, I cried just there. Thank you for the memories @billoherlihy An absolute legend in Irish Broadcasting. You’ll be missed,” he wrote.
Veteran: Bill has been in RTE for five decades | RTE
Long time friend and fellow sports broadcaster Eamon Dunphy said in a statement that he will be missed by the RTE team.
“Bill is a fantastic broadcaster, one of the greats, he makes it look easy which, of course, it isn’t.
“His great skill is his ability to listen and to decide what’s important and what’s not. He was our team captain and we will miss him terribly.”
Support: RTE hung a poster in his honour
Liam Brady added: “He was always a great team manager, that’s what we are, a team.”
“And Bill managed us very well. He looked after me and I’m going to miss him.”
See Bill’s Best Bits:
