RTE legend Charlie Bird dies after devastating Motor Neurone Disease diagnosis

12 March 2024 , 10:17

1094     0

Charlie Bird has died aged 74 (Image: SM-IR Irish Pictures )

RTE star Charlie Bird has died at the age of 74.

The late presenter died on March 11. Charlie was known for his work with RTE and bravely shared his battle with Motor Neurone Disease since being diagnosed in 2021. He recently confessed that his health had worsened significantly.

Charlie won over the nation's hearts when he appeared on the Late Late Show in 2021, where he spoke to Ryan Tubridy about his life-altering condition. This led to the Climb With Charlie initiative, which saw thousands of people ascend Croagh Patrick and other Irish mountains to raise money for charity. Over 3 million was raised for the Motor Neurones Association and Pieta House.

In an interview with RSVP Magazine shortly after his diagnosis, Charlie said "I knew before I was diagnosed that I had motor neurone disease. The reason I knew is I had a good friend in RTE called Colm Murray who had the disease. I used to visit him, I used to sit with him. I remember thinking I wouldn't be able to cope with that, and here I am now.", reports RSVP Live.

Charkie helped raise over 3 million Euros for Motor Neurones Association and Pieta House (PA)

Charlie Bird, a legendary voice of RTE for over four decades, was born in Sandymount, Dublin on September 9, 1949. His impressive career kick-started when he joined RTE in 1974 as a current affairs researcher. Charlie soon became a popular figure at the channel. In 1980, he took his talent to the Newsroom and in 2009, he journeyed to the US as RTE's Washington Correspondent.

Surprising symptom that 40% of women suffer weeks before a heart attack

But, missing home, Charlie returned to Ireland in June 2010 and became the Chief News Correspondent. In 2012, he surprised everyone by retiring from RTE earlier than people thought he would. Sharing his reasons with RSVP Magazine he said, "I had just come back from Washington [as RTE's correspondent].

"I have said this before but I shouldn't have gone to Washington. I was too long doing the same job, standing outside Leinster House dealing with politicians. When I went to Washington, my first grandchild Charlie was born. I met Claire who was coming back and forth so I just wanted to be at home with my family. I have two daughters and I have five grandkids, so every day with them is precious to me."

Paying tribute, Seamus Dooley, Irish secretary of the National Union of Journalists said: "Although we have been expecting this news, it is still a moment of enormous sadness. Supported by his wife Claire, Charlie lived his battle with motor neurone disease in the public gaze, with characteristic determination and searing honesty. The qualities he has manifested during his illness – grit, fierce determination and generosity of spirit – were the same qualities which marked Charlie Bird as a journalist."

Meanwhile, one user on X, formerly Twitter wrote: "Very sad this morning to learn of the death of Charlie Bird. Condolences to Claire, his family and many friends." They added: "Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam," which translates to: "At the right hand of God was his soul." Another user penned: "A courageous man who worked tirelessly to raise awareness of MND and to also help others. What made him special was how he always thought of others, even though he was sick. A terrific journalist who covered stories with great humility. RIP Charlie."

"Very sad to hear of the passing of Charlie Bird, fantastic reporter and brave until the end. Rest in Peace Charlie," typed another. Ireland's deputy premier Micheal Martin said Charlie Bird represented public service broadcasting in Ireland at its very best. "I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charlie Bird, who inspired so many with the courage, generosity of spirit and dignity he faced his battle with motor neurone disease," said the Tanaiste.

"As a journalist and broadcaster for RTE, Charlie had few peers, memorably covering national and international events such as the peace process, the September 11 attacks on New York, the Gulf War and the National Irish Bank scandal. Personable and engaging, Charlie always had the public interest at heart. He represented public service broadcasting in Ireland at its very best.

"Over the past few years, Charlie captured the public imagination, nurturing a true spirit of solidarity through his Croagh Patrick Climb With Charlie. His message of generosity, friendship and simply looking out for each other will long be remembered. My sincere condolences to his wife Claire, children, wider family and many friends and colleagues."

Charlie is survived by his loving wife Claire, their daughters Orla and Neasa, their adorable grandchildren, Abigail, Charlie, Edward, Harriet and Hugo and not forgetting, Tiger, his faithful doggy friend.

Daniel Bird