How many times have you watched the Late Late Toy Show? It’s a question I don’t know the answer to myself, but I’ve been trying to work it out.
I’m in my early forties, so let’s account for the first few years of my life when staying up that late was beyond me, and my early twenties when being home that early on a Friday night was beyond me… I’ll conservatively estimate that I’ve missed 15 somewhere along the way. That’s still 26 Toy Shows watched and relished.
There really is nothing like the Toy Show; it’s an Irish institution and a unique concept that hasn’t been imitated in other countries. It is ours to be proud of.
The Late Late Toy Show has seen four hosts since its conception in the mid-70s: Gay Byrne, Pat Kenny, Ryan Tubridy and Patrick Kielty. Four male hosts, but it’s worth noting that the Toy Show was the brainchild of a woman, Pan Collins, who pitched the idea to Gay Byrne as a senior researcher back in the day.
The story goes that Gay Byrne shot down her idea as he didn’t think it would make for good viewing. Pan had to dig in her heels and insisted that it would be well received by the television audience. Now, it’s the most watched – and most lucrative – show on RTÉ. More power to Pan.
This year’s Toy Show will air tomorrow evening, Friday, on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player at 9.35pm. It always amazes me that it’s aired so late, given its target market. I suppose that part of the charm as a child is staying up later than you ever have before.
I remember the sense of pride when I finally managed to stay awake for the final credits of the Toy Show; no mean feat when you’re small! For those who can’t manage the nightshift, there’s a rerun on RTÉ One on Sunday at 3.10pm.
The Toy Show has long been part of the rhythm of Irish Christmases. For decades, it has brought families together around the TV. These days, we tend to be decked out in matching jammies with trays of sweets ready to devour. Well, the kids do need some extra energy to stay up so late!
I think Gay Byrne was my favourite host – but that could be the bias of childhood nostalgia talking. I particularly remember the thrill of seeing his Christmas jumpers every year. Now, they’re ten a penny, but for a long time, the only Christmas jumper we got to lay eyes on was Gay’s festive attire. The fact that he looked so embarrassed in it added to the appeal!
The toy testing itself is unquestionably my favourite part of the Toy Show experience. The format has evolved slightly over the years, with more focus on children’s performances and guest appearances.
In more recent years, we’ve heard stories of resilience from children who suffer with various illnesses. Saoirse Ruane, who has since sadly passed away, touched all our hearts in 2020. Since then, the Toy Show Appeal has turned the festive spectacle into a force for good, raising over €25 million to support children’s charities across Ireland, providing everything from essential aid to creative and educational opportunities.
In an age where kids can find unboxing videos and toy reviews online, it might seem a wonder that the Toy Show is still relevant.
Part of the appeal is definitely pure nostalgia – parents who grew up with it, and now want to pass it on. It’s rarely polished and more often unpredictable. Children forget lines, toys malfunction, and laughter erupts over the smallest, sweetest comments.
And maybe that’s why, after nearly half a century, the Toy Show is still as magical and charming as ever.
