RTE Late Late Show viewers share love for legend Keith Earls after 'brave' interview

There was a lot of love for recently retired Irish rugby international following his brave interview on the Late Late Show in which he recounted his many good days, and some bad days, in the Irish jersey.

"The most important thing that I take away is that I am proud that I stuck at it," he said. 

He admitted that there were plenty of times "when I didn't want to stick at it". 

"Where I had come from, I wasn't supposed to make it," he said. "I am happy I went against the odds of where I came from and the odds on myself, and my own struggles - I have had a good career," he said.

His successful career has given him an opportunity to work with some great charities, such as the Irish Youth Foundation, which he said is doing great work "with kids from areas like myself". 

"I am proud I stuck at it. It has taken me on a journey I never thought I would have been on in a million years," Earls said of his career. 

Late Late Show presenter Patrick Kielty said "on behalf of all of us and the whole country, thank you". 

Keith revealed he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2021 and has been open about his journey to becoming medication free.

"I'm proud I stuck at it, and it's taken me on the journey I never thought it would have in a million years." @KEITHEARLS87 #LateLate pic.twitter.com/PPZ6sfRHOx

— The Late Late Show (@RTELateLateShow) November 17, 2023

One viewer gushed: "You would be hard pressed to find a better man. Makes me so proud of Limerick". 

Another praised him for being so "honest, open and genuine". 

He was praised by another viewer for raising such an important issue. "Keith Earls is an absolute sporting legend. He was an absolute warrior on the pitch. So many of us have mental health issues and Keith speaking out about his bipolar disorder has helped countless people. We are so lucky to have him."