Kielty stepping into the Buddy The Elf’s yellow tights was just the beginning of what would be a Toy Show to remember, and it brought back what the show is all about: the children.
From Sheamie’s old soul energy to Freya’s darling smile and Sophie’s surprise arrival, this year’s annual Toy Show was one that made us laugh, made us cry, and was exactly what was needed given the events in our capital in the last week.
The Co. Down presenter not only gave everything he had to make sure each child felt heard and walked off set with a smile, from dressing up in numerous costumes to getting properly involved with the toys and in the games, but he also unleashed his own inner child, creating an atmosphere of joy and fun from the onset.
Well you smashed that @PatricKielty Thank you to everyone who made it happen and gave us some sparkle back after yesterday. Buddy brilliant. #LateLateToyShow pic.twitter.com/bbQrdAmrVn
— Róisín Ingle ❤️😊 (@roisiningle) November 25, 2023
While every toy tester left their mark on our hearts, here are some of our favourite moments from The Late Late Toy Show 2023.
Seeing little Sophie’s dreams come true live on television is what the Late Late Toy Show is all about.
This little angel is proof that life can test you, but you can still show up with positivity and love.
Seeing Sophie clutching Uni and learning she was off to Orlando—I don’t think there was a dry eye in Ireland.
This is what the Toy Show is all about. Delighted for Sophie ❤️ #LateLateToyShow pic.twitter.com/4vs2jAvLzy
— Elaine Smith (@ItsElaineSmith) November 25, 2023
Sheamie will forever be remembered anytime the Toy Show is brought up, for Aul Lad chit-chat and his golden one-liners, leaving viewers in hysterics.
This young man is a national treasure, and we hope to welcome him back to ‘the big schmokes’ again very soon for a carvery dinner and a pint.
sheamie is going down in the late late toy show hall of fame. a TRUE icon. #LateLateToyShow pic.twitter.com/bwvHBMT9BE
— amy (@amybutlowkey) November 24, 2023
A very special mention must be given to this little lady for her performance.
It takes a lot of guts to stand up and perform on your own, and we could all learn a lot from Sophia.
She should be so proud of herself. We’ll all be buying your first rap single when it inevitably comes out.
FYI… Sophia KILLED it backstage for us just now ❤️#LateLateToyShow pic.twitter.com/L4NBpgqDaS
— The Late Late Show (@RTELateLateShow) November 24, 2023
There is nothing more heartwarming about the Toy Show than seeing a child’s dreams realised.
Stevie’s passion for sport was palpable from the moment we met him, and nobody deserved to meet their heroes more.
Rugby legends Bundee Aki and Peter O’Mahony walking in while he proudly belted out ‘Ireland’s Call’ is as Irish as it gets.
A #latelate legend is born good man Stevie from Kilkenny #LateLateToyShow pic.twitter.com/MvVVotfUm7
— Dr. Eddie Murphy (@dreddiemurphy) November 24, 2023
The Late Late Toy Show gave a special call-back to how appearing on it can be the start of something incredible for the children who star on it by bringing back Alicia Weir during the amazing performance of Matilda.
Seeing the little girl’s faces when meeting their inspiration is a memory that will stay with us for a very long time.
The talent was unbelivable.
I don't think we realise how massive this Matilda movie is and how dubliner Alicia Weir is the lead of it!!
— CROSSY (@CrossyTweets) November 24, 2023
Brilliant to see!!#LateLateToyShow pic.twitter.com/Ki5vKb14nj
The Toy Show wouldn’t have been the Toy Show without the tireless work of Elfish Presley, always on hand to help out.
With his iconic sideburns and dance moves, anytime he left our screen, we couldn’t wait to get him back.
We didn’t appreciate him enough while we had him… and now Elfish has left the building … goodbye sweet prince… you have escaped your music box prison… until next year … #LateLateToyShow pic.twitter.com/etYhXwxg0q
— Méabh de Brún @meabhdebrun.bsky.social (@MeabhdeBrun) November 25, 2023
Freya reminded viewers of the beautiful innocence that comes with being a child, and she won the hearts of the nation for many reasons.
Ending the show with her beautiful singing was the perfect way to sign off a very successful Toy Show.
PS: We’re going to need that haircare routine.
Freya is the hero we all needed tonight ❤ #LateLateToyShow pic.twitter.com/CJsdibIo7z
— Joanna Ryde🍹 (@JoannaRyde) November 25, 2023
The Late Late Toy Show raised over €3million for The Toy Show Appeal last night – a stark reminder of who the Irish people really are.
If you would like to donate, please visit rte.ie/toyshowappeal.
All donations help to change children’s lives for good.
