It would seem that RTÉ Radio 1’s Oliver Callan could do with a wake-up call, as he recently admitted. The presenter, who only started his talk show a month ago, nearly didn’t make it on time for his Tuesday morning slot due to a dead phone and being on his own at home. An open and honest Callan took responsibility for his own public blunder, brushing it off lightly as a sign of settling into his new position.
The format of his program seems to be taking a distinct path, although it’s too early to determine whether it’s progress or stagnation. His launch chats range from everyday news, including the advancements of GAA athletes trying out for American football teams, to sharp jibes, such as mocking the Oireachtas committees’ capability to straighten out the situation at RTÉ. Adding a touch of humour to celebrity gossip, his imitations, particularly of pop mogul Louis Walsh, give the show an unconventional twist. Although, his main discussions lack the similar captivating pull, despite their individual worth.
A debate about reforestation with Randal Plunkett, the historic Dunsany estate owner in Co Meath, explored the advantages of tree planting and downplayed the importance of his baron status, acknowledging its irrelevance in a republic. This, together with a discussion about transition year legal applications, creates an impression of solidity rather than dynamism. It’s worsened by Callan’s sporadic obligated tone during interviews.
Patrick Freyne has expressed suspicions that some participants from Celebrity Big Brother might have secured accommodation via Airbnb. He believes that as long as the celebrities were booked, the show’s producers approved. Meanwhile, Guy Ritchie’s newest motion picture, titled ‘The Gentlemen’, received positive reviews; with Ritchie’s combination of extreme violence and humour deemed to be absurdly amusing.
At present, Callan seems to be still settling into his new role on the morning show, but there is optimism that he will soon find his rhythm in due course. Despite this, Callan has maintained the charisma for his satirical comedy show, Callan’s Kicks (broadcasted on RTÉ Radio 1, Fridays). Callan’s show, which recently returned to the air, is as enjoyable as ever with its humorous yet pointed critique of rural populist Mattie McGrath and the ideological terminologies employed by People Before Profit TDs. Additionally, his critique of government adverts for family and care referendums has been widely acclaimed. However, note that on the day of the polling, the show will not be aired.
RTÉ Radio 1’s 9am programme has witnessed a slight dip in listeners, however, its audience size currently exceeds that from a year ago. There have been instances when the host of The Ray D’Arcy Show (RTÉ Radio 1, weekdays), might have benefited more from an afternoon nap rather than hosting. Despite this, D’Arcy’s performance is currently on point, greatly owed to his eclectic range of guests. For instance, this Wednesday’s episode featured former Republic of Ireland football manager Brian Kerr, singer Johnny McEvoy, and ex-news presenter Anne Doyle. Although D’Arcy’s classification of these guests as “three legends” might be pushing it a bit, they certainly bring more lustre when compared to Callan’s morning broadcast offer. With Tubridy no longer around, D’Arcy has successfully attracted the attention of septuagenarian celebrities for Radio 1 chat shows.
Notably, the interviews are definitely worth a listen. Kerr, with a gloom-filled demeanor, reminisces about his departure from his management position in 2005, stating it was painful but accepted it as part of life. Doyle, exhibits her usual sharp wit familiar from earlier engagements with D’Arcy, showcasing a resigned outlook of an ex-staff member as she ponders the RTÉ crisis, saying, “This place has seen a fair share of hard times.”
McEvoy’s dialogue with D’Arcy is the most emotional. The seasoned vocalist opens up about his life and art in what seems like a deceptively relaxed way. He openly talks about his battle with alcoholism and depression, and cherished memories of his late wife, Odette. “Music was absolutely my rescue,” he ends. In response, D’Arcy seems fuelled by his guest’s attendance, as well as the music he performed in the studio, commenting with enthusiasm, “I could enjoy your company indefinitely.”
Surely there are other engaging moments. On Tuesday, Steve Wickham, the violinist, shares stories from his journey in the folk and rock scene, turning out to be an interesting session even for those not so keen on his band – The Waterboys. Moreover, D’Arcy’s intriguing sections are not just limited to stars. On Tuesday, he calls upon producer Zoe Comyns to discuss her Lyric FM documentary about Kate Meyrick – An Irish woman who scandalously dominated the 1920s nightlife in London.
This turned out to be a good week for D’Arcy. His deliberate casualness may not impress sceptics, however, when circumstances allow, his radio skills truly stand out. The story of Meyrick is undeniably compelling and Comyns’ programme, The Lyric Feature: Queen of Nightclubs (Sunday), recounts a riveting tale about a high-society Dublin mother of eight who, after separating from her abusive husband, ran several notorious West End venues. Her multiple incarcerations eventually led to her downfall. By highlighting this engaging documentary, available post-broadcast on the Lyric site, D’Arcy does his listeners a significant favour.
It’s been a promising week for D’Arcy. His carefully nonchalant approach may not win over the sceptics, but when the conditions suit him, his radio skills really come to the fore. “We need to move on, Anne Doyle,” he tells the past journalist as he closes the show on Wednesday. “As a former employee here, you’re familiar with punctuality.” Perhaps they could share some insights with Callan.
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