Gay Byrne has admitted it was clear from the get go that Ray D’Arcy was getting ready to take over The Saturday Night Show.
Goss.ie previously revealed Brendan’s show was being axed in favour of a new series with Ray beginning next season.
“It was obvious from the start that Ray was going to get a chat show,” Gay said.
“After The Late Late Show on Friday night, the next big chat show is Saturday and that will be Ray’s territory now.”
Back in business: Gay knew Ray was being groomed for a chat show
“In this business, everybody wants a chat show. Everybody except me because I’m done with all that now,” he told the Star.
The TV presenter refused to comment on whether Ray is being groomed to eventually take over the Late Late from Ryan Tubridy.
“It’s nothing to do with me. I did my time and did it a best as I could and it’s up to others now and that’s the way it goes.”
However, sources have claimed The Saturday Night Show was growing too successful under Brendan – with RTE keen to give Ray room to build ratings.
Rumours: Gay refused to comment on whether Ray could take over from Ryan | ANDRES POVEDA
“Ray D’Arcy is the new golden boy of the station and the plan was always to make him look as good as possible.”
“After spending up to €500,000 to hire him, RTE want to get value for every cent by turning him into a ratings magnet and an anchor for the station,” they told the paper.
