Patrick Kielty: Life, Career, Family, Illness, Net Worth, and Everything to Know

Patrick Kielty is a name that stands strong in the world of comedy, television hosting, and entertainment—especially across Ireland and the UK. From his early rise as a fearless stand-up comedian during a tense era in Northern Ireland to becoming the face of The Late Late Show, Kielty’s journey is one marked by resilience, talent, and personal growth.

Beyond his career, Patrick’s personal life—his marriage to Cat Deeley, parenthood, the recent separation, and his battle with illness—adds emotional depth to his public image. If you’re searching for Who is Patrick Kielty?, Patrick Kielty illness, Patrick Kielty family, TV shows with Patrick Kielty, or his net worth, age, and birthday, this long-form article covers it all.

Who is Patrick Kielty?

Patrick Kielty is a Northern Irish comedian, actor, TV host, and radio presenter, widely recognized for his sharp wit, charming personality, and ability to switch seamlessly between humor and serious conversation. Born in Dundrum, County Down, he grew up witnessing the intensity of “The Troubles,” which later shaped both his worldview and the emotional backbone of his documentary work.

Over the years, Kielty transformed from a young stand-up comic into one of the most respected entertainers in Ireland and the UK. His humor, storytelling, and natural hosting abilities have made him a familiar and beloved figure across television, documentaries, film, and radio.

Patrick Kielty Age and Birthday

Patrick Kielty was born on January 31, 1971, making him 54 years old as of 2025. His birthday is celebrated by fans across Ireland and the UK, who often share clips and memories from his career.

Patrick Kielty Early Life and Family Background

Patrick grew up in a close family with two brothers. He is one of three sons born to Jack Kielty, a building contractor who played a significant role in the local community.

A pivotal moment in Patrick’s childhood came at the age of 16 when his father, Jack, was murdered by loyalist paramilitaries during The Troubles. This personal tragedy left a profound impact on him, influencing both his maturity and his future storytelling work.

Patrick later explored the trauma, politics, and emotional aftermath years later in the award-winning documentary “My Dad, the Peace Deal and Me.”

Patrick Kielty Brother and Sister

Patrick has two brothers, but no confirmed sisters. His family maintains a relatively private profile, though he has spoken openly about the collective grief they shared following their father’s death.

Patrick Kielty’s Education

Kielty studied psychology at Queen’s University Belfast. While there, he also began nurturing his interest in comedy and performance—a path that would eventually lead him to national television.

Patrick Kielty’s Rise to Comedy Fame

Patrick Kielty started his career in stand-up comedy, performing during a politically tense era in Northern Ireland. What made him unique was his courage—he often used humor as a bridge to talk about deeper issues affecting society at the time.

A major early achievement was founding The Empire Laughs Back, Belfast’s first comedy club, which became a legendary stage for upcoming comedic talent. His natural talent and sharp comedic edges quickly caught the attention of producers, leading him to television opportunities.

TV Shows with Patrick Kielty

Patrick has appeared in and hosted several iconic British and Irish shows. Here are some of his most notable TV roles:

1. Patrick Kielty Almost Live (1999–2003)

A BBC Northern Ireland hit—part chat show, part comedy showcase—that helped cement his reputation as a charismatic host.

2. Love Island (Original Series 2005–2006)

He co-presented the original Love Island before the show became globally known for its reboot.

3. Stand-up and Panel Shows

• Stand Up for the Week

• Bad Language

• Debatable

• Appearances on The One Show, This Morning, and others.

4. The Late Late Show (2023–Present)

One of the biggest milestones in his career came in 2023 when he became the fourth permanent presenter of Ireland’s iconic The Late Late Show. This elevated his profile tremendously.

5. Documentaries

His documentary career is critically acclaimed:

• My Dad, The Peace Deal and Me (BAFTA-nominated)

• Various BBC and ITV documentary projects exploring identity, politics, and personal history.

Patrick Kielty Movies

Patrick made his feature-film acting debut in the 2023 movie Ballywalter, where he played the character Shane. The film received positive attention, highlighting his ability to transition from comedy to dramatic acting.

He has also participated in smaller film and documentary projects throughout his career.

Patrick Kielty’s Illness

In 2024, Patrick Kielty faced a health scare after developing shingles, a painful condition caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus.

According to his then-wife Cat Deeley, Patrick initially misunderstood the strange tingling and burning sensations on his face, assuming it was due to moving furniture. When diagnosed, he was treated and made a full recovery.

The illness led to public conversations around stress, immune health, and the pressures of being a high-profile presenter.

Patrick Kielty Wife – Cat Deeley

Patrick Kielty married British TV personality Cat Deeley—globally recognized for hosting So You Think You Can Dance—on September 29, 2012, in a private ceremony in Rome.

The two had known each other for years before developing a romantic connection. Their relationship had been admired for being grounded, humorous, and deeply affectionate.

Cat Deeley and Patrick Kielty Split

In July 2025, Patrick Kielty and Cat Deeley publicly announced their separation after nearly 13 years of marriage.

Their joint statement emphasized:

• There was no third party involved

• They remain committed to co-parenting

• They ask for privacy for their children

The news surprised fans, as the couple had been viewed as one of entertainment’s most stable marriages. Patrick later mentioned in interviews that navigating the split while staying present for their kids was a priority.

Patrick Kielty Children

Patrick and Cat Deeley share two sons:

• Milo – born January 2016

• James – born June 2018

Patrick is known to be a dedicated, hands-on father. He frequently speaks about wanting his children to have a grounded childhood despite their parents’ fame.

Patrick Kielty Family Life Today

Following the split, Patrick has continued to focus on:

• His hosting duties

• Acting and documentary filming

• Spending meaningful time with his children

He often speaks about “slowing down,” appreciating life, and embracing emotional honesty. His recent interviews show a more reflective and mature version of him—a man shaped by both loss and love.

Patrick Kielty Net Worth

As of 2025, Patrick Kielty’s estimated net worth is around $15 million. His income comes from:

• Stand-up comedy

• Television hosting

• Documentary work

• Radio presenting

• Film roles

• Live appearances and tours

His long career and high-profile hosting roles—especially The Late Late Show—significantly boosted his financial status.

Patrick Kielty’s Legacy

Patrick Kielty has built a remarkable career rooted in humor, courage, personal reflection, and adaptability. He successfully bridged the gap between comedy and serious storytelling, bringing audiences both laughter and insightful real-world narratives.

His ability to reinvent himself—from stand-up comic to national talk show host, from grieving teenager to thoughtful documentary creator—makes him one of Ireland’s most multifaceted public personalities.

Final Thoughts – From Megacine

Patrick Kielty’s journey is a powerful reminder of resilience, adaptability, and authenticity. Whether you admire him for his comedy, his emotionally rich documentaries, his hosting skills, or his personal transparency, his story continues to inspire audiences across generations.

For more in-depth profiles and entertainment insights, visit Megacine.