UPDATE: We contacted the fine folks over at RTÉ when we heard the news earlier today, and they had this to say:

Dermot Whelan is a great presenter and RTÉ has a strong working relationship with him. Dermot is doing a stand up comedy tour this autumn so isn’t in a position to present the next series of Republic of Telly. RTÉ is currently in discussions with Dermot about another project which is in the development phase. Jennifer Maguire and Bernard O’ Shea will be back with another series Republic of Telly.

We'll start taking bets on who'll helm the next series soon.
--------------------------------------------

Now, we know you can't believe everything you read on the Twitter machine, but the most recent Tweets from one Dermot Whelan left us a little confused, because it claimed that the Republic of Telly host will not be coming back for another series of the smash hit RTE Two series. What gives?

"Thank you to all who watched the Republic of Telly over the last few years. I had such a ball but I'm leaving the show. #nomorejokesleft : )" the tweet read. We, and half the twitterverse, were hoping that it wasn't to be taken seriously, but as time ticked on and further tweets were posted, it appeared more and more likely that dear Dermo wasn't having the craic. 

Fans of the show have since taken to the the oul social 'meeeja' to express their sorrow and wish Whelan all the best. It seems the viewing public have become big fans of the man who we all fondly remember as the fella with the Fig Rolls. Sure didn't he bring a bit of pzazz to our TV screens every Monday evening?

We're still holding out for a massive 'gotcha', but in the meantime, we wish Mr Whelan every success. You'll have to excuse your TV Ed while she goes and sobs quietly in the corner...

>WATCH: You Know You're Irish When... Republic of Telly goes out with a bang