Carl Mullan 'buzzing' over Rose of Tralee role as Will Leahy steps down
After 20 years in the iconic role, the RTÉ Gold host said he would "do it forever" but believes it's time to say goodbye. Daithí Ó Sé will remain at the helm of the show, while Carl will take over the job of announcing the roses and presenting social media content.
A spokesperson for RTÉ said: "After two memorable decades as Master of Ceremonies, Will Leahy is hanging up his microphone. We'd like to take this opportunity to thank Will for his long-standing contribution to the Rose of Tralee Festival down through the years.
"We are delighted to welcome 2FM Breakfast Show presenter Carl Mullan as the new Master of Ceremonies. Carl is no stranger to the Rose of Tralee, having served as an escort in 2016." Taking to social media, Will said he's not leaving the long-standing show for other projects. Will Leahy is stepping down as the Rose of Tralee MC after 20 years (Image: RTÉ)
He added: "I'd keep doing it forever, but I've been in the job 20 years, which is an eternity in the presenting world. I am going to miss the annual mad summer camp that I have been honoured to be a part of for all these years. I started with Ray D'Arcy in 2005 - yes, that long ago.
"Myself and Dáithí have soldiered together for 15 years, and in the past few years Kathryn (Thomas) has added greatly to the team. So to the best crew of tv professionals, the Rose team and, of course, the 576 Roses that I have met, thanks for letting me be part of telly history."
Speaking alongside his 2FM Breakfast co-hosts Roz Purcell and Aisling Bonner, Carl said he is "absolutely buzzing" with his new job. He added: "On the night, I'm the person who's responsible for introducing all 32 Roses on stage, telling you about them, where they're from."
The Rose of Tralee will air on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player on August 18 and 19.
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