Kathleen Watkins: A Life in Front of and Behind the Camera

Kathleen Watkins was an Irish broadcaster, harpist, actress, singer, and author. She was married to Gay Byrne from 1964 until his death in 2019.

Early Life and Career

Kathleen Watkins was born in Saggart, County Dublin, Ireland, on October 17, 1934. She was the daughter of Patrick Watkins, a civil servant, and Kathleen (née Byrne) Watkins, a homemaker. Watkins received her education at the Dominican College in Sion Hill, Dublin.

Watkins began her career as a folk singer and harpist. She was the first continuity presenter to appear on RTÉ television when it was launched in 1961. She also worked as a radio presenter on RTÉ Radio 1.

Marriage and Family

In 1964, Watkins married Gay Byrne, the host of the popular RTÉ television show The Late Late Show. The couple had two daughters, Crona and Suzy. Watkins and Byrne were married for 55 years until Byrne's death in 2019.

Later Career

After her marriage, Watkins continued to work as a broadcaster and author. She wrote several books, including The Heart's Melody (1994) and Kathleen Watkins: A Memoir (2014).

Watkins also worked as a charity volunteer. She was a patron of the Irish Hospice Foundation and the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.

Death and Legacy

Kathleen Watkins died in Dublin on November 7, 2024, at the age of 90. She was surrounded by her family. Watkins was predeceased by her husband, Gay Byrne, in 2019.

Kathleen Watkins was a beloved figure in Irish broadcasting. She was a talented performer and a compassionate and dedicated person. She will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and fans.