Get ready for an exciting year of television and radio as RTÉ unveils its 2026 schedule, packed with thrilling entertainment and captivating stories! But here's the twist: it's not just about the shows; it's about the impact they'll have on Irish audiences.
RTÉ's 2026 Lineup:
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- Dancing with the Stars is back, glitzier than ever. From January 4th, watch familiar celebrities battle it up on the dancefloor, judged by the fabulous Oti Mabuse.
- The Late Late Show returns on January 9th with a special focus on Irish traditional music. A must-watch for music lovers!
- Dermot Bannon is back to transform homes in Room to Improve, starting January 4th. Will he clash with pragmatic surveyor Claire Irwin again?
- RTÉ delves into the heart of Cork University Hospital with the powerful documentary series Any Given Day, airing January 7th.
- Love is in the air as First Dates returns this spring. Will Cupid strike again?
- RTÉ Investigates tackles a crucial topic: mental health services in Ireland, in a two-part series this February.
- The Ryanair Story chronicles the airline's remarkable 40-year journey, coming soon.
- RTÉ's commitment to local drama shines with nine new productions filmed in 2025, totaling 142 hours of captivating storytelling for 2026.
- These Sacred Vows, a comedy-drama series, debuts this spring. This Irish-Spanish production, starring Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, promises mystery and intrigue.
Sports Highlights:
- The Champions League returns in January, with Liverpool's match against Marseille on the 21st.
- The Republic of Ireland's World Cup dreams are on the line in a play-off semi-final against Czechia on March 26th, live on RTÉ2. Can they make it to the final?
- The Allianz Leagues in Football and Hurling kick off in January, with defending champions Kerry and Cork aiming to retain their titles.
- In the Six Nations, Andy Farrell's Ireland seeks redemption, starting in February.
And this is where it gets controversial: with such a diverse lineup, will RTÉ manage to cater to all tastes and preferences? Are these shows enough to keep audiences engaged throughout the year? Share your thoughts below!
