It's been an absolute shite year all round but I think that countdown on rte may have taken the biscuit

I'd love it if RTE made a good entertainment show. Statistically they're due one.

There's some good people working their but management seem content second guessing everything until the finished product is the lowest of the lowest common denominators.

Something changed in the ethos of the place in the last 20 years because the level of contempt they have for their audience's intelligence is absolutely shocking. Remember when they used to show "Frasier"? And remember how popular "Frasier" was even though it was about an elitist psychiatrist? People liked it because it was a funny show with clever writing about a family folks could identify with. Screening "Frasier" wasn't even a risk because it was a huge international hit. I cannot imagine the present higher-ups at RTE having the courage to assume their audience were clever enough for such a show.

RTE has a real talent problem. It's just way too parochial. The Two Johnnys might be two gas lads from your local GAA club fundraiser but their show is like watching 90's Italian television. Bernard O'Shea is an extremely average comedian who continues to fail upwards. Jennifer Maguire is a former Apprentice contestant who inserted herself into the entertainment world through sheer force of will despite having no discernible talent, wit or intelligence.

Folks who they have on their roster who are talented are misused. Una Healy seems like a nice lady but someone's overestimated her ability to be all things to all people. It's not fair to put her in a position she's not able for. She's a famous singer- let her just do that! Same with Imelda May. Presenting is not her strong suit and nor should it be, she's a talented lady with a great voice.

/r/ireland Thread