Meet the five Late Late Show Opening Act finalists
Meet the five Late Late Show Opening Act finalists
The excitement in the Irish music scene has reached a fever pitch as RTE's flagship program unveils a life-changing opportunity for aspiring country stars. This week, the spotlight shines brightly on a talented group of performers vying for the ultimate prize: the chance to open for global superstar Shania Twain at her massive Thomond Park show this July. Hosted by Patrick Kielty, the competition has narrow down hundreds of entries to a select group of exceptional artists who represent the future of Irish country and pop-infused music.
The five Late Late Show Opening Act finalists are Jesse Sludds from Wexford, Paddy Treacy from Fermanagh, Caitlin Mackin from Armagh, Ryan Phoenix from Cork, and the girl group Midnight in Vegas. These talented performers will compete in a live finale on RTÉ One, where a combination of expert industry judges and a public vote will determine who secures the dream gig opening for Shania Twain in Limerick and a featured spot on the Late Late Show Country Music Special.
The Journey to the Late Late Show Finale
The search for Ireland's next big opening act began as a nationwide call to arms for singers and bands who felt they had what it takes to command a stadium stage. Following the surprise announcement by Shania Twain herself on the Late Late Show website, the competition saw an influx of high-quality submissions from every corner of the island. The production team and musical experts spent weeks reviewing tapes, looking for that specific "X-factor" that blends traditional country roots with contemporary appeal.
The transition from local gigs and bedroom recordings to the historic studio of the Late Late Show is a monumental step for any artist. For these five finalists, the journey has been a whirlwind of rehearsals, media appearances, and the mounting pressure of performing live on national television. This competition is not just about a single performance; it is a platform designed to launch a career, mirroring the success of previous musical discoveries made on the show over its decades-long history.
Jesse Sludds: The Wexford Sensation
Hailing from Wexford, Jesse Sludds has quickly become a fan favorite with his soulful interpretations and commanding stage presence. Known for his ability to connect with an audience through emotional storytelling, Jesse's participation in the competition highlights the deep well of talent in the southeast of Ireland. His choice of repertoire often leans into the "Country-Folk" crossover, making him a versatile performer capable of appealing to both purists and modern listeners.
During the live finale, Jesse took a significant risk by performing a rendition of "Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman, a song that has seen a massive resurgence in the country charts recently. This choice showcased his vocal range and his ability to put a unique, country-tinged spin on a classic anthem. The judges noted his authenticity, a trait that is essential for any artist hoping to share a stage with a legend like Shania Twain.
Paddy Treacy: Fermanagh's Country Pride
Paddy Treacy brings the rich musical heritage of Fermanagh to the national stage. Fermanagh has long been a stronghold for country music in Ireland, and Paddy carries that torch with pride. His style is deeply rooted in the storytelling traditions of the genre, delivered with a voice that carries the weight of experience despite his young age. For Paddy, this competition represents the culmination of years of hard work in the local circuit.
His performance in the finale was a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted country ballad. Paddy's ability to navigate the nuances of the genre earned him high marks from the expert panel, particularly from icons like Sandy Kelly. He represents the "heart" of the competition, proving that traditional country music still has a massive and vibrant place in the hearts of the Irish public.
Caitlin Mackin: The Powerhouse from Armagh
Caitlin Mackin, representing Armagh, is a powerhouse vocalist whose energy is infectious. From the moment she was announced as a finalist, Caitlin has been praised for her technical ability and her "stadium-ready" voice. In a competition where the ultimate prize is performing at Thomond Park, having the power to reach the back of a stadium is a distinct advantage.
Caitlin's journey through the Opening Act competition has been marked by a series of high-energy performances that demonstrate her readiness for the professional stage. Her presence in the finale added a layer of fierce competition, as she pushed the other finalists to elevate their game. Her blend of modern country-pop aligns perfectly with the current global trends in the genre, making her a strong contender for a long-term career in the industry.
Midnight in Vegas: A New Era of Girl Groups
Midnight in Vegas is a unique entry in the competition, bringing a fresh, harmonic approach to the country-pop sound. The group consists of Keli-Ann Corcoran from Dublin, Phoebe Dipple from Waterford, and Jamie Sullivan from Essex. This tri-national makeup brings a diverse range of influences to their music, resulting in a polished and sophisticated sound that stands out in the Irish market.
The group was revealed as the fourth finalist during a special appearance on RTÉ Radio 1, where they spoke about their desire to bring a new generation of country-influenced pop to the forefront. Their focus on tight harmonies and catchy melodies makes them a natural fit for a large-scale production like the Shania Twain concert. They represent the evolving nature of the genre, where collaboration and group dynamics can create a massive sonic impact.
| Finalist Name | Origin / Location |
|---|---|
| Jesse Sludds | Wexford |
| Paddy Treacy | Fermanagh |
| Caitlin Mackin | Armagh |
| Midnight in Vegas | Dublin / Waterford / Essex |
| Ryan Phoenix | Cork |
Ryan Phoenix: The Cork Contender
Ryan Phoenix, the finalist from Cork, completes the diverse lineup of talent. Ryan has been described as a "natural performer" with an innate ability to engage with the camera and the live audience alike. His style often incorporates more contemporary elements, bridging the gap between traditional Irish country and the Nashville "New Country" sound that has dominated global airwaves.
Ryan’s path to the finale was paved with consistent performances that showed a clear artistic identity. In the high-stakes environment of the Late Late Show, Ryan remained composed, delivering a performance that many viewers felt was professional-grade. His inclusion ensured that the south of Ireland was well-represented in a finale that spanned the entire island.
The Expert Judging Panel
To help guide the public and the finalists, the Late Late Show assembled a "star-studded" panel of industry veterans. The panel featured Una Healy, the multi-platinum singer who rose to fame with The Saturdays and has since established herself as a leading voice in Irish country music. Joining her was Sandy Kelly, a true icon of the genre and a 2026 inductee into the Late Late Show Country Hall of Fame.
Rounding out the panel were Ben Earle, one half of the UK's most successful country duo, The Shires, and Tom Dunne, a well-known radio broadcaster and musician. These four experts provided invaluable insights into what it takes to succeed at the highest level of the music business. While the public vote played a crucial role, the feedback from these industry leaders provided the finalists with a masterclass in performance and artistry.
The Grand Prize: Opening for Shania Twain
The magnitude of the prize cannot be overstated. Opening for Shania Twain at Thomond Park on July 7th is a career-defining moment. Shania Twain is a global icon with over 100 million records sold, and her "Queen of Me" era has solidified her status as a legend who continues to draw massive crowds. For an unsigned or emerging Irish artist to share that stage is an opportunity that usually takes years, if not decades, to achieve.
Beyond the Limerick concert, the winner also earns a guaranteed performance slot on the Late Late Show Country Music Special in October. This annual event is one of the most-watched broadcasts in Ireland, providing the winner with sustained national exposure long after the Shania Twain concert has concluded. It is a comprehensive package designed to take an artist from "finalist" to "household name."
FAQ
Who won the Late Late Show Opening Act competition?
Jesse Sludds was crowned the winner of the Late Late Show Opening Act competition after a stellar performance in the live finale.
Where is the Shania Twain concert taking place?
The concert will take place at Thomond Park Stadium in Limerick on July 7, 2026.
Who were the judges for the competition?
The judging panel included Una Healy, Sandy Kelly, Ben Earle from The Shires, and Tom Dunne.
What songs did the finalists perform?
Finalists performed renditions of country classics. For example, winner Jesse Sludds performed a country version of "Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman.
Will there be another Opening Act competition?
While this was the inaugural edition, the massive success and public engagement suggest that RTÉ may look to continue the format for future major concert events.
Conclusion
The search for the Late Late Show Opening Act has been more than just a talent show; it has been a celebration of the vibrant and evolving music scene in Ireland. By narrowing down the field to five incredible finalists—Jesse Sludds, Paddy Treacy, Caitlin Mackin, Ryan Phoenix, and Midnight in Vegas—the show highlighted the diversity and depth of talent available today. While Jesse Sludds ultimately took home the top prize, all five acts have proven they are ready for the big stage. As Jesse prepares to open for Shania Twain in Limerick, the entire country watches with pride, knowing that the next generation of Irish music is in very capable hands.
Meet the five Late Late Show Opening Act finalists
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