So the leaves turn brown, the dark nights draw in, and the world's longest-running chat show rolls on for a 48th season. Is it in safe hands?
Yes, seems to be the consensus after the last season. To make an analogy with another long-running series, if Gay Byrne was Sean Connery, then Ryan Tubridy is at last his worthy successor. In other words, Daniel Craig. Eh, with Pat Kenny being Timothy Dalton, and Frank Hall in the George Lazenby role.

And 'Roll it there' Roisín as Miss Moneypenny?
Let's not stretch the analogy too far, shall we?
How long has Tubridy's Late, Late stint got to run, do you think?
Considering he's been working in RTé since he was a nipper, and considering he's still only 37, and considering too that Gay Byrne stayed for 37 years in the hot seat, I'd say there's quite a long way to go.

Jeeze, he could end up being Roger Moore. He lasted even longer than Connery...
Look, enough of the Bond comparisons.

He got off to a terrific start this time last year.
Yep. He dealt with Brian Cowen very deftly indeed, and his interview with Brian McFadden was unexpectedly revealing. And it should be said that, towards the end of last season, the way he handled the show the day Gerry Ryan died was brilliant – personal, warm, professional.

And then there was the Toy Show...
Yes, but the real star of that one was young John-Joe the clock enthusiast, as we all know.
Who've they got lined up for the first show of the new season?
It's a surprise. But Tony Blair and Larry Murphy have both been mentioned as possible guests. Which conjures up the image of angry mobs from opposite ends of the ideological spectrum descending on the piazzas of Montrose next Friday.

Wow. That'd be two big coups right there.
Do you mean the guests, or if the protestors breach security?
Gavin Corbett