It's the end of an era over in RTE as comedy show Republic of Telly has been cancelled after an eight-year run. The series kicked off its first season back in 2009 with host Neil Delamere, while Today FM's Dermot Whelan took over in the second season until 2013 when comedian Kevin McGahern and his magnificent shirts took the reigns.
The series was responsible for numerous viral hits over the years as well as spawning a number of spin-off shows including Damo and Ivor, Bridget and Eamon, and undoubtedly helped launched the career of The Rubberbandits.
There had been rumours that the show was facing the chop, but the news was confirmed today, with RTE releasing a statement saying; "After 15 seasons of Republic of Telly, RTÉ has made the decision not to recommission the series".
The statement added that the broadcaster would now be on the look out for a suitable replacement in its schedule saying it is "looking at a number of new comedy and entertainment series for RTÉ2 for broadcast later this year which we'll announce over the coming months."
While Adrian Lynch, Channel Controller RTÉ One and RTÉ 2 said:
"Republic of Telly has been a brilliant vehicle for developing talent both on and off-screen, from Damo & Ivor to Bridget and Eamon and The Rubberbandits, and broke the mould in how it engaged with viewers and brought Irish comedy acts to a wider audience."
As much as it could be hit and miss at times, we have to say, we're sad to see it go, as when Republic of Telly nailed it, they really nailed it. At the same time, it's exciting to think it leaves room for another new comedy show on the national broadcaster. Just please don't make it another hidden camera show RTE. Please.
