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A lifelong champion of radio is entering the Hall of Fame alongside four other pioneers as part of the 2026 IMRO Radio Awards ceremony in Kilkenny. The inductees honour long‑standing dedication to audiences, broadcasting excellence, and community service. The event celebrates enduring legacies that shaped Ireland's audio media.
From the glow of television screens to the buzzing of radio waves, a legendary broadcaster has remained a constant presence in Irish media for more than a half‑century.
This season, his decades of influence and groundbreaking work will be formally celebrated when he is named a member of the IMRO Radio Awards Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was created to honour persons whose work has left an indelible mark on radio, whether they spent their time on the air, working behind the scenes, or shaping the medium in other significant ways.
In 2026 the ceremony will precede the main awards event, taking place in the historic Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny on Friday 2nd October. Joining the long‑awaited inductee this year are four other distinguished figures whose careers have helped to define the sound, ethos and future of radio across the island.
Michael Crawley of LMFM brings decades of experience as a presenter and a champion of local music; Teena Gates from Bauer Media Ireland has made an enduring impact as a journalist and producer, while Helen Ní Shé of Raidió Na Gaeltachta has demonstrated unwavering commitment to broadcasting in the Irish language. Together, they form a group whose shared core is a deep love for their audiences, a commitment to the highest standards of journalism and storytelling, and active service to the communities they serve.
When asked about the honour, the celebrated presenter said: The moment has arrived where a promise made decades ago is now realised. I feel grateful for every integral moment of my career and proud to be included among pioneers who have shaped Irish broadcasting. The Chair of the IMRO Radio Awards Committee made clear that the Hall of Fame is not a ceremony of trophies - it is a testament to careers that have endured and continued to feel relevant.
He highlighted that the inductees were chosen for their leadership, their stories, their compassion and the companionship they offered listeners come dawn, dusk or dark. In closing the Chair invited everyone present to celebrate the enduring legacy of Michael Crawley, Teena Gates, Helen Ní Shé and a veteran known across the country as Marty Whelan. Beyond the professional accolades, the iconic host also briefly shared his personal life.
In a recent interview, he reflected on his forty‑year marriage, describing his partner as a soulmate and the most remarkable gift life could offer. In a year that will shine a light on the most inspiring voices that have carved Ireland's auditory heritage, the Hall of Fame stands as a beacon.
It reminds us that great broadcast talent is measured not merely by popularity but by the spirit of generosity, the dedication to truth, and a willingness to share our culture in every available medium. The event marks a milestone for the industry, reinforcing that the influence of beloved voices in television and radio is not only remembered but moulds the future of how stories and music are told across generations.
The 2026 celebration also underscores the importance of community life, delivering the message that every media platform, from the best national programmes to local stations, remains an essential vehicle for sharing stories that unite people,
Irish Radio Hall Of Fame Broadcasting Pioneers IMRO Awards Media Legacy
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