RTE in Crisis

Tubridy will have to build British radio audience from scratch

After a stormy few months the erstwhile RTÉ star is back on air, but while his Virgin gig could open up opportunities, it will be a steep learning curve

Ryan Tubridy with his agent Noel Kelly and Virgin Radio presenter Chris Evans after the announcement that the former RTÉ broadcaster is joining Virigin Radio in the UK with a weekday morning show from 10am to 1pm

Last Thursday morning, radio presenter Chris Evans cued audio of rapturous applause and loud fireworks as he announced the arrival of Ryan Tubridy to Virgin Radio.

“Listen to this, it’s all going on. Oh my goodness me, he’s here, from the island of Ireland. Oh my goodness me, Ryan,” Evans said.

The Virgin Radio presenter had to make a big deal because it needed to be spelled out for British listeners, who would largely be ...