
Tributes pour in as RTÉ broadcaster dies unexpectedly
RTÉ broadcaster Bill O'Herlihy has sadly passed away.
News of the death of the legendary sports broadcaster was confirmed by RTÉ just now. Bill reportedly passed away suddenly at his home this morning.
A cause of death has yet to be announced.
Bill, best known for his RTÉ coverage of the Olympic Games, the World Cup and the European Football Championships, is survived by his wife Hillary, his daughters Jill and Sally and his grandchildren. He had retired from broadcasting after finishing up work on the World Cup last summer.
Noel Curran, Director-General of RTÉ, paid tribute to Bill today, saying, "Everyone in RTÉ is devastated at today’s news. Bill O’Herlihy was a giant of the sporting and broadcasting worlds in this country. His contribution to broadcasting was utterly unique."
Messages of shock and condolences have been pouring in via Twitter:
Very sad news about the passing of Bill O'Herlihy. RIP.
— Matt Cooper (@cooper_m) May 25, 2015
Very few unifying & universally loved figures in Irish life. RIP the great Bill O'Herlihy. "We'll leave it there so" pic.twitter.com/WSitKoN162
— Eoghan McDermott (@eoghanmcdermo) May 25, 2015
Our sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Bill O'Herlihy who has sadly passed away. #RIP #OkeyDoke
— Pat Kenny Newstalk (@PatKennyNT) May 25, 2015
Our thoughts are with Bill's family, friends and colleagues at this time.