Late Late Toy Show host Ryan Tubridy has insisted he isn’t worried about TV3 taking them on this week.
TV3 have drafted in former Westlife star Brian McFadden and Xpose’s Karen Koster for their version this Friday.
Bosses are putting the TV3 show out at 8pm – allowing kids to be able to stay up and watch the show – a week before RTE’s annual special.
Taking them on: TV3 are hoping to get huge viewers with their Toy Show
But Tubridy insisted he doesn’t fear their version affecting his show. He said: “I think it’s fair enough, there’s room for one and all so we just say good luck everyone.”
Instead the 42-year-old feels the atmosphere in RTE will allow them to keep their game up again this year, after 1.5 million people tuned in last year.
“It’s an absolutely bonkers atmosphere, both children and adults are delighted to be there. There’s a double nostalgia as adults my age grew up with it and now they’re watching with their kids,” he said.
“So when I see people in the audience looking bright and happy, I think it’s likely, then I shoot them with a nerf gun or show a filthy toy nappy in their face. I like to make them pay for their privilege.”
Going all out: Tubs hopes atmosphere will get record viewers | RTE
Last week, Goss.ie told how more than 100,000 people have applied for tickets to the Christmas extravaganza – and Tubs is “nervous” about his opening number.
“I’m excited and nervous about it because it’s quite a big song and dance number, and I can’t sing or dance as we know from last year,” he told TV Now.
“The theme was something I was eager to pursue, but I am now beginning to regret that. The main thing is that I come across like a complete goofball.”
