This Monday (6
th April), Donegal is set to take the stage in a brand‑new BBC television series,
Ronan Keating’s Wild Atlantic, which will air on BBC Northern Ireland and BBC Daytime.
The series follows Boyzone star Ronan Keating as he travels the length of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, reconnecting with places that have shaped his life and family history. The forthcoming episode sees Ronan journey to Donegal, where viewers will experience the county’s dramatic coastline, rich music culture and welcoming spirit through Ronan’s eyes.
Ronan Keating performs with Claudia Buckley at the Abbey Hotel.
During his time in the county, Ronan sets out from Bundoran to explore the northwest coast by motorbike with longtime friend and artist Terry Bradley, before taking to the stage for an impromptu performance at the Abbey Hotel with country star Claudia Buckley – celebrating Donegal’s strong musical heritage and vibrant live scene. He also tries his hand at some bog oak sculpting at Local Hands in Ballyshannon with Rossa Byrne.
Ronan with Rossa Byrne at Local Hands in Ballyshannon
The wider series also sees Ronan visit Cork, Kerry, Mayo, Sligo and Derry, joined along the way by family members and special guests including Westlife’s Shane Filan and comedian Diona Doherty. Across the journey, Ronan reflects on his childhood, family connections and his relationship with Ireland’s west coast.
The Donegal episode of
Ronan Keating’s Wild Atlantic will air on
BBC One Northern Ireland and BBC iPlayer on Monday 6th April with a repeat on Wednesday 8th April.
Speaking about the series, Ronan said:
“It’s felt really special making this series, rediscovering magical places that have meant so much to me and my family. I was 16 when I left Ireland, and there was so much of the west coast I hadn’t seen. Now, I’m coming home, and I can’t wait for viewers to share all the laughter and tears along the way.”
Ronan Keating’s Wild Atlantic is a BBC Northern Ireland and BBC Daytime co‑commission, produced by Alleycats TV as part of the Hot House initiative, with support from Northern Ireland Screen and Tourism Ireland.