Larry Masterson, the veteran RTÉ producer who worked on various programmes for the broadcaster over a long career, has died aged 73.
A death notice said that Masterson died peacefully on Sunday with his family by his side, and in the care of staff at Blackrock Hospice.
Masterson, who was from Dublin’s inner city, moved into the television industry after initially working as a social worker. He spent over 40 years in television, producing many flagship programmes – including The Late Late Show and The Saturday Night Show with Brendan O’Connor.
Kevin Bakhurst, director general of RTÉ, said that Masterson was “legendary” in the television industry, and was a “deeply respected, much liked, and widely admired” figure.
Housing in Ireland is among the most expensive and most affordable in the EU. How does that happen?
Ceann comhairle election key task as 34th Dáil convenes for first time
Your EV questions answered: Am I better to drive my 13-year-old diesel until it dies than buy a new EV?
Workplace wrangles: Staying on the right side of your HR department, and more labrynthine aspects of employment law
“From an initial foray in current affairs, Larry soon found his niche in entertainment, and his work with Mike Murphy on The Live Mike – including his infamous Candid Camera style inserts – were not only hugely innovative, but were cultural moments then and now,” he said.
“As executive producer on The Late Late Show, the world’s longest running live entertainment show, Larry ensured the continuity of the programme’s iconic status in Irish life. He said a good Late Late should be like a good night out.
“Audiences, whether they knew it or not, had countless great nights out with Larry. His contribution will be long remembered,” Mr Bakhurst added.
Masterson is survived by his wife Hazel, his daughters Kerri and Tara and extended family.
- Sign up for push alerts and have the best news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone
- Find The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date
- Listen to our Inside Politics podcast for the best political chat and analysis
