Singer Brian McFadden has been chosen as Alan Hughes’ replacement on TV3’s Toy Show.
The former Westlife star, who has been hosting an array of shows on ITV the last year, will host the 90 minute special next month alongside Karen Koster.
Brian, 34, will present the show live at Dublin’s RDS on Friday November 21 – just one week ahead of Ryan Tubridy’s Late Late Toy Show.
New rival: Brian will go up against Ryan after replacing Alan
TV insiders have told Goss.ie that Brian was given “big money” to host the revamped toy show.
“The core sponsors of the show wanted to choose who hosted the show. They decided to replace Alan Hughes and they wanted someone big.
“They offered Brian a lot of cash to do the show, they are spending a lot on him, but they think he will be a hit with viewers,” the source explained.
Head to head: Brian and Tubs will be in a ratings battle | RTE
Speaking about the news today Brian said he was excited to take on the hosting duties.
“This is a really exciting opportunity for me. I’ve worked on a lot of great shows in the UK but it’s great to come home and host a show that I know will be a great production.
“When TV3 approached me I just thought the Christmas Toy Show was right up my alley and something I could bring a lot of energy to and have a lot of fun in the process.
“I’m really looking forward to getting into the Christmas spirit – it’s going to be a fantastic show.”
OMJ: Jedward will join Brian and Karen on the show
Dublin duo Jedward will also be helping out Brian and Karen with special roles in the Toy Show next month.
Karen revealed today that she was delighted to be asked to co-host with Brian.
“I am over the moon to be part of the Christmas Toy Show on TV3, in what is a really special year for me.”
Co-host: Karen will present the show with Brian | BRIAN MCEVOY
“I am actually due the baby around Christmas Day so this Christmas is extra special,” she said.
“And what better way to get all Christmassy than by hosting what is essentially 90 minutes of acting like you are 8-years-old all over again.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what all of our ‘toy testers’ and contributors will be showcasing on the night because they’re the ones that will bring the atmosphere to life at the RDS.”
New host: Last year Alan and Ryan were head to head
The news comes after Goss.ie revealed Alan Hughes was left “hurt” after the sponsors of the TV3 Toy Show told him he was being replaced.
Last year Alan’s version of the show brought in 350,000 viewers.
But this year the broadcaster wants a new face for the show.
