Kielty’s Traitors Remark Backfires

Comedian Patrick Kielty’s remarks linking Sinn Fein to the reality show The Traitors during the opening of RTE’s Late Late Show have sparked controversy, with Sinn Fein calling for an apology from Ireland’s national broadcaster. Kielty’s quip, referring to Sinn Fein leaders Mary Lou McDonald and former member Brian Stanley as contestants in a fictional game of deception and betrayal, was met with mixed reactions from the audience, including both laughter and boos.

The comment comes in the wake of a public controversy involving Stanley, who recently resigned from the party following a complaint. Kielty, in his monologue, drew parallels between the reality show’s themes and the political situation, saying, “If you haven’t seen the show, trust me, it’s full of deception and betrayal. Well, all we have to do is work out who’s telling the truth.”

However, Sinn Fein took issue with the joke, highlighting that far-right groups have previously labeled the party as "traitors," with some threats made against McDonald. The party argued that the comments could be seen as “election interference,” given that Ireland’s general election is expected soon.

Sinn Fein TD Louise O’Reilly criticized the remark, stating, “It is miles away from satire, and most definitely is not a joke. We shouldn’t joke or mess about the far right, or indeed, the language that they use.”

In contrast, RTE defended Kielty, noting that satire is a core part of the show’s format and a staple of free expression. They pointed out that the monologue often targets prominent figures and topical events, with the joke intended as a satirical comment rather than a serious political statement.

While the broadcaster maintained that the comment was part of its entertainment format, Sinn Fein remains resolute in their criticism, suggesting that the language used, even in satire, should be more carefully considered.