RTÉ broadcaster Marian Finucane passes away suddenly aged 69
Legendary RTÉ broadcaster Marian Finucane, known to many as the voice of weekend radio, has died.
A statement released this evening by RTÉ said that Marian Finucane passed away suddenly at home today. Marian is survived by her husband John and son Jack.
Born in 1950, Marian has worked with RTÉ since the 1970s and is most notable for her shows, Women Today and Liveline. She was given the honour of taking over Gay Byrne’s daily morning slot when he retired from RTÉ Radio.
RTÉ Director General Dee Forbes said on hearing of Marian’s passing: “We learned today of the sudden passing of Marian Finucane with profound shock and sadness.
“Marian was a broadcaster of immense capability; a household name, she was first and foremost a tenacious journalist with a zeal for breaking new ground.
“From Women Today to Liveline to her weekday radio show on Radio 1 and, latterly, her enormously popular Saturday and Sunday radio programme, she tackled the big social issues of the day with command and insight.
“Multi-skilled, she forged a distinguished career on television, as well as undertaking significant charity work in Africa. Ireland has lost a unique voice. RTÉ has lost a beloved colleague. My sincere and heartfelt sympathies to her husband John and son Jack.”
