The former radio presenter has a slower pace of life these days – making the most of his free time after decades on air at RTÉ
‘It’s been a privilege’: Joe Duffy’s emotional sign off from Liveline for the last time
Joe Duffy has lifted the lid on his retirement, explaining he now uses his free time to paint and travel across the country.
The legendary broadcaster hung up his mic last summer after 37 years spent working at RTÉ. Joe now has a different pace of life, which he says is “a relief”.
“I’m painting every day,” he said, before adding with a laugh: “I’m not doing the hall, stairs and landing now. But honestly, it’s one of the most relaxing things you can do. I recommend anyone to just pick up a brush and do it.”
The Liveline icon is also enjoying exploring Ireland more, thanks to his free travel pass. Some people may wonder why he doesn’t expand his travel plans abroad, but Joe hasn’t seen parts of Ireland for many years due his demanding career, RSVPLive reports.
He told the Irish Daily Mail: “Look, people might ask, ‘Would you not go to the Bahamas?’ But I can’t think of anything better than travelling around and visiting places I hadn’t seen in years. I started working when I was 13, and getting up at 6.30am. My dad was very strict on routine.”
Joe no longer works on the radio but is still one of the most recognisable figures in Ireland. He told the publication: “I was in Killarney last summer. Two fellas walked past, did a double take.
“One came back and said, ‘You don’t mind me asking – didn’t you used to be Joe Duffy?’ I said, ‘I still am Joe Duffy’. And thank goodness for that.”
Kieran Cuddihy is the new host of Liveline and Joe thinks he’s doing a good job. He said: “He has a great team too, which is often the most important thing in the programme. He’s obviously settling in to a new schedule and you have to remember, the changes were so seismic [at RTÉ Radio 1].”
Earlier this month, the title of Honorary Corkperson was given to Duffy, and he presented with a a Republic of Cork passport and an inscribed piece of Cork Crystal.