RTÉ shake-up sees odds slashed as new favourite emerges to take over Joe Duffy's Liveline

With Irish broadcasting legend Joe Duffy set to retire this week, speculation is intensifying over who will take over Liveline, RTÉ Radio 1's flagship daily phone-in show that has become a national institution over the past 25 years.

The succession race is wide open, with a mix of seasoned journalists, household names, and rising stars in the frame.

The broadcaster has not yet confirmed when the appointment will be made, but bookies have been quick to recalibrate the odds following a major shake-up in RTÉ's current affairs line-up.

RTÉ's cancellation of Upfront with Katie Hannon has sent ripples across Montrose and beyond. While RTÉ said the decision was based on shifting strategic priorities and resource pressures, many see it as clearing the way for Hannon to take on a new high-profile role within the organisation.

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Just last week, RTÉ favourite Oliver Callan saw a surge in support. The satirist and broadcaster has built a strong following with his 9am slot on RTÉ Radio 1, and punters are now backing him for a move to the coveted 1.45pm slot vacated by Duffy.

According to a release issued just last week, Callan's odds to host Liveline shortened dramatically from 6/1 to 2/1.

"With no end to predictions of who will become the next Liveline host, Oliver Callan is the one that seems to be gathering most momentum of late," said Cal Gildart of Ladbrokes. "He has the personality and the voice to fill the gigantic shoes left by Joe."

Callan is not the only one making headlines. TV and radio presenter Jennifer Zamparelli is also priced at 2/1, while Claire Byrne follows closely at 3/1. 2FM presenter Carl Mullan, who fronted The Full Irish Hidden Camera Show, is listed at 5/1.

However, the clear favourite, according to the bookies, is none other than Katie Hannon. Following the cancellation of Upfront, her odds have plummeted to 1/5, signalling that many believe the job is already hers in all but name.

Hannon, a seasoned journalist with over 14 years of reporting for Prime Time and years hosting RTÉ Radio 1's Late Debate and Saturday with Katie Hannon, is considered a steady hand capable of commanding the mic. Her background could make her a natural successor to the Liveline hot seat.

"Katie Hannon's diary is now clear for the iconic gig, and the odds suggest it's hers," said Alex Apati of Ladbrokes.

RTÉ has remained tight-lipped, but with Duffy's retirement looming, an announcement on one of the most high-profile jobs in Irish broadcasting could be just around the corner.

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