Former radio star rumoured to take over Joe Duffy’s RTÉ’s Liveline

Joe Duffy's replacement has yet to be announced.

The former Today FM star sparked rumors that he would replace Joe Duffy who retired last month after hosting the show for 27 years.

Now, Dermot Whelan, best known for co-hosting Dermot and Dave, is the bookies top pick to take over the role, priced with 5/1 odds.

Whelan is no stranger at RTÉ and just recently returned to RTÉ Radio 1, filling in for Oliver Callan.

A source told the Irish Mail that the recent stint is said to have impressed RTE’s new radio boss Patricia Monaghan.

The source stated: “The reality is there’s a new sheriff in town. Patricia has come over from Newstalk and she has brought with her that independent station mindset of change and adapt.”

“It’s kind of understood that the average Radio One listener is middle-aged. But the reality is the demographic with a lot of disposable income are 35 upwards who have good jobs but work irregular hours or from home.

“Before Covid, most professionals would be in the office nine to five, but that’s simply not the case now. Many are at home, and they invariably have the radio on in the background."

“Are some people worried? Probably. Nobody’s slot is safe, except perhaps for Oliver Callan. They adore Oliver.”

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