Kathleen Watkins, broadcaster and wife of Gay Byrne, has died aged 90

LAST UPDATE | 21 hrs ago

KATHLEEN WATKINS, writer, broadcaster and musician, has died at the age of 90.

Kathleen, who was married to Gay Byrne, turned 90 on 17 October.

Gay Byrne, who hosted the Late Late Show from 1962 until 1999, died five years ago – on 4 November 2019.

Kathleen enjoyed acclaim as a harpist and folk singer before joining RTÉ as a continuity announcer on television. She was the first announcer to appear on screen on the opening night of Telefís Éireann on New Year’s Eve 1961.

In later years, she enjoyed success with her series of children’s books.

She and Gay Byrne married in 1964 and had two daughters, Crona and Suzy. A statement issued today by their daughters confirmed the news.

“It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Kathleen Watkins,” the statement noted.

“Kathleen died peacefully earlier today surrounded by her loving family in the wonderful care of the Team at the Blackrock Clinic.

“Kathleen’s family are devastated by the loss of their much loved mother and devoted Nanakit to her grandchildren Cian, Sadhbh, Kate, Saoirse and Harry.”

Funeral arrangements will be announced later, the statement added.

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Tributes

Taoiseach Simon Harris was among the first to pay tribute, describing Kathleen as “a magnetic person with a warm and witty personality and presence, as well as her considerable artistic talent”.

“She and her husband, Gay Byrne, were one of Ireland’s most famous couples and it was always obvious to see their devotion to each other and their family throughout their long and loving marriage,” Harris said in a statement. 

“Whilst Gay Byrne is perhaps the most famous face RTÉ has ever produced, Kathleen will always be one of the first faces to appear on screen on RTÉ’s opening night.

She was multi-talented in her own right, and indeed like many households around the country, her books and Pigín have a special place on the bookcase in my home.

“To her daughters, Crona and Suzy, her grandchildren and wider circle of family, friends and colleagues, I am sorry for your loss. May she rest in peace.”

‘Memorable contribution’ 

President Michael D Higgins also paid tribute, saying he and his wife Sabina learned of Kathleen’s passing “with great sorrow”.

“We were among the many who had the greatest regard and affection for her. I know that this was shared in particular by all of Kathleen’s colleagues in RTÉ.

“Sabina and I convey our sympathy to them, along with so many in Ireland’s cultural life to which Kathleen made such a memorable contribution.

“These talents were demonstrated through her work as an artist and broadcaster, as well as a writer who was appreciated by people of all ages.”

Kathleen was the beloved life partner of Gay Byrne who we remember now, recalling the joy of their unique partnership.

“We recall also the warmth of Kathleen’s personality, her humour and kindness – she represented the best of her generation in so many ways and during such a formative period in our country.

“I hope that all who loved Kathleen will be comforted by these memories, her truly remarkable legacy and her inspiring life.”

President Higgins offered his condolences to Kathleen’s daughters, grandchildren and wider family.

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