Singer, author, and activist Bob Geldof is set to make a high-profile return to RTÉ’s The Late Late Show. Joining host Patrick Kielty, Geldof will reflect on the historic impact, legacy, and behind-the-scenes memories of the landmark 1985 benefit concert, Live Aid.
Airing on Friday, October 16, at 9:35 p.m. on RTÉ One and the RTÉ Player, the episode features a stacked guest couch blending music, comedy, and sport. Alongside Geldof, the lineup includes Spandau Ballet musician Gary Kemp, comedians James Acaster and Kyla Cobbler, and former rugby international Simon Zebo.
Reflecting on Live Aid and Its Enduring Legacy
During his appearance, Geldof will discuss the events leading up to July 13, 1985. On that day, Live Aid captured the attention of more than 1.5 billion viewers worldwide. The massive dual-venue concert held at Wembley Stadium in London and JFK Stadium in Philadelphia successfully raised millions of dollars to combat hunger and poverty in Africa, fundamentally rewriting music history.
Beyond looking back at the historic broadcast, Geldof will discuss how it felt to see this humanitarian effort transformed into the Olivier-nominated stage musical, Just For One Day, which is scheduled to arrive in Ireland next year.
A Star-Studded Couch on RTÉ
Geldof will not be the only person in the studio with direct ties to the legendary 1985 concert. Spandau Ballet guitarist Gary Kemp, whose band performed live on the Wembley Stadium stage during the event, will join the conversation to share his personal memories of the day.
The rest of Patrick Kielty’s guest lineup features:
- James Acaster: The UK comedian and participant in The Celebrity Traitors will discuss life on the dark side, his upcoming stand-up special, and his holidays in Ireland.
- Kyla Cobbler: The rising comedy sensation will chat about her blockbuster year. This includes selling out her upcoming 3Arena show, penning her memoir, getting married, and announcing her first pregnancy.
- Simon Zebo: The former rugby star will open up about his deep love for Munster, his career regrets regarding Gaelic football in Cork, and how a clash with coach Joe Schmidt ultimately steered him toward playing in Paris.
Audiences can catch the full episode live on RTÉ One and through the RTÉ Player platform starting at 9:35 p.m.
