Local man Kevin McGahern to host IFTAs

Awards ceremony is set to take place on Friday, February 14 at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre.

Cavan man Kevin McGahern has been announced as this year’s host of the Irish Film Television Academy (IFTA) awards.

The comedian, actor and presenter was the host of RTÉ's Republic of Telly for 10 seasons and subsequently starred in shows such as Smother, Hardy Bucks, Video Nasty, The Bright Side, Bridget & Eamon, Nowhere Fast, The Dry and The Last Duel.

The Loch Gowna native also hosted TV documentaries including ‘Kevin McGahern's Fast & Furious’ and ‘Kevin McGahern’s America’. "It's a huge honour to be asked to host the IFTAs this year,” contended McGahern. "It's been another amazing year for Irish film and drama both here and around the globe.

"I look forward to celebrating those achievements on the night and to having some fun too! What incredible talent and skill that this small island is capable of."

Meanwhile, a list of IFTA guest presenters and international guests for this year's awards show will be announced next month. Irish actor Colm Meaney is set to receive the IFTA Lifetime Achievement Award at the ceremony while the winner of the 2025 Rising Star award will also be revealed.

The Rising Star nominees are Anthony Boyle, Aislinn Clarke, Clinton Liberty and Alisha Weir. The 22nd annual IFTA awards ceremony is set to take place on Friday, February 14 at the Dublin Royal Convention Centre.