Brian Dowling tipped for iconic Liveline role following shock exit from radio show

Brian Dowling has been tipped for the iconic Liveline role on RTÉ Radio 1 following his shock departure from his daily radio show on 98fm.

The Irish presenter and TV personality revealed his departure in an emotional post on social media this week thanking his team and soon to be former co-host Suzanne Kane, who has also announced her departure from the station.

In a post on Instagram, the 46-year-old said,

"I made the decision earlier in the year that I would not be continuing co-hosting on Brian Dowling & Suzanne Kane on @98fmdublin making this Friday June 6th my very last show on Brian Dowling & Suzanne Kane. When I joined Suzanne back in March of 2023, I had ZERO radio hosting skills.

"Blake was only 6 months old & baby Blu was only a twinkle in our eyes. It took me a minute to get into my new groove, but when I did, WOW, I honestly have had the best time & have genuinely laughed every day; even on those bad days, being part of this show ALWAYS puts a smile on my face. Here we are now 2 years & 3 months later & I’m still laughing & smiling.

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"I have learned so much about an industry I’ve been in for nearly 24 years, presenting mainly television shows but now my love for radio easily equals my love for telly.

"A MASSIVE HEARTFELT. Thank you to the team, Russell and Cathal. You guys make the show what it is, and especially to you, Pat Gill, for making this experience UTTERLY JOYFUL for me. Also, to you, James Brownlow, thanks for taking the risk on me.

"It has never ever felt like work; I mean, how could it when I’m playing the likes of Britney, S Club & JLO, to name but a few I am so looking forward to a slower Summer; I’m not actually sure if I can operate on a slower pace.

"Normality will continue on Six and of course, shooting the rest of The Salvage Squad this summer, as well as some trips away I’ve planned; in fact, it’s turning out to be a very memorable Summer.

"The BIGGEST THANK YOU goes to our listeners; you guys are the best, as you have kept me company 5 days a week for the last 2 years & 3 months. Your daily messages have brightened my days from 10am - 1pm. Goodbyes are not something I’m very good at, but this doesn’t feel like a goodbye at all; it’s more of a talk to you later.

"This is Brian Dowling & you are listening to 98FM."

View this post on Instagram, 

A post shared by Brian Dowling Gourounlian (@bprdowling)

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The father of two joined the station back in 2023 alongside Suzanne Kane for the 6 O'Clock Show, but has now been put in the running to replace Joe Duffy in the iconic Liveline seat, according to the latest odds from Ladbrokes.

"Brian could be the ideal candidate to fill in for Joe Duffy when he leaves", said a spokesperson from Ladbrokes who has Dowling tipped at 6/1 to land the role.

"He has definitely got the personality and punters think he may have an outside chance of landing in the hottest seat in Irish radio right now", they added.

Katie Hannon is currently the favourite to take over with Ray D'Arcy, Claire Byrne and Sean Moncrieff also in the running.