Renowned Irish Broadcaster Kathleen Watkins Dies at 90

Kathleen Watkins, an Irish figure known for her work as a broadcaster, author, and musician, has passed away at 90 years old. Ms. Watkins, the spouse of the late broadcaster Gay Byrne, passed away in the presence of her family members. She held the distinction of being the inaugural continuity announcer to be seen on screen on Telefís Éireann. Simon Harris, the Taoiseach (Irish Prime Minister), characterized her as a “magnetic person” and “multi-talented”. In an official statement, Mr. Harris commended Ms. Watkins’ “warm and witty personality and presence, as well as her considerable artistic talent. “Whilst Gay Byrne is perhaps the most famous face RTÉ has ever produced, Kathleen will always be one of the first faces to appear on screen on RTÉ’s opening night.”He further stated, “She was multi-talented in her own right, and indeed like many households around the country, her books and Pigín have a special place on the bookcase in my home.” Hailing from Saggart, County Dublin, Ms. Watkins initially pursued a career as a harpist and folk singer. Subsequently, she became a continuity announcer for RTÉ television, making her the first continuity announcer to appear on screen for the channel on New Year’s Eve 1961. Ms. Watkins was a mother to two children, Crona and Suzy, and authored the well-known children’s book series, Pigín. The Pigín series received an Irish Book Award in 2016. During her later life, Ms. Watkins dedicated a significant portion of her time to providing care for Gay Byrne, who passed away in November 2019. She is survived by her two daughters, Crona and Suzy, her sons-in-law Phil and Ronan, and her five grandchildren.