Aonghus McAnally facts for kids

Aonghus McAnally (born 20 June 1955) is a well-known Irish broadcaster, actor, musician, and magician. He also plays billiards at an international level. Aonghus worked for Ireland's public broadcaster, Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ), for over 40 years. He retired from his work there in June 2020.

Early Life and Family

Aonghus McAnally was born on June 20, 1955. He is one of four children. His mother was Abbey Theatre actress Ronnie Masterson. His father was the screen actor Ray McAnally. Aonghus has one brother, Conor McAnally, who is a film and television producer.

Music Career

Aonghus McAnally is a talented guitarist. He played in several bands during his career. Some of these bands included Mushroom, Maxband, Starband, and Crackers/The Crack.

As a solo artist, Aonghus released a fun song in 1981. It was called I am Alergic to Christmas. This song was written by another famous broadcaster, Shay Healy. Aonghus was also a good friend of the singer-songwriter Christie Hennessy. After Christie passed away, Aonghus spoke at his funeral. He later created a special touring show to honor Christie Hennessy's music.

Television Shows

Aonghus McAnally started his TV career by presenting shows for young people. These shows included Anything Goes. He also worked on Borderline, a show about topics for young adults. Another show he presented was Evening Extra, which was a magazine-style program.

Later, Aonghus moved into light entertainment shows. He presented The Big Top TV Show. This was a variety show that took place inside a circus big top tent. Aonghus also hosted the first few seasons of The Lyrics Board. This was a popular game show on RTÉ One where contestants guessed song lyrics.

Besides presenting, Aonghus also acted on screen. He appeared in Wanderly Wagon in 1979. He also had a regular role in the drama series Fir Bolg on TG4.

Radio Work

Aonghus McAnally has a lot of experience in radio. He presented Both Sides Now. This was an interview series that featured members of the Irish diaspora. These are Irish people living in other countries.

He was also a regular presenter of RTÉ Radio 1's Late Date. This show often features music and interviews late at night. Aonghus also worked as a radio producer. He produced Spectrum with Melanie Verwoerd, a former South African Ambassador. Until his retirement in 2020, he was the main producer for the daily phone-in show Liveline.

Hobbies and Talents

Aonghus McAnally has many different talents. He is a very skilled magician. He has performed magic shows for audiences.

He is also an excellent billiards player. He has played billiards at an international level, representing Ireland. Aonghus also worked as an announcer and commentator for snooker games. In the early 2000s, Aonghus performed several stand-up comedy shows. In 2019, he created a special one-man show about his own life experiences.

Personal Life

Aonghus McAnally is married to Billie Morton. They have sons together. Aonghus made an Irish-language documentary about his father, Ray McAnally. The documentary was called Ray McAnally – M'Athair, which means "My Father". It was shown on TG4 in 2009.