RTÉ stars pay tribute following death of 'brilliant' producer Larry Masterson

Tributes have flooded in from former RTÉ colleagues, politicians and entertainers for former RTÉ producer Larry Masterson, who passed away recently. 

Sharing a reel of photographs on Instagram, Miriam O'Callaghan wrote: "Larry was the best of men. I was one of the incredibly lucky presenters who got Larry as their producer.

"A brilliant TV executive producer, but more importantly a beautiful man, kind, empathetic, caring, funny and he always had the back of his team and his presenter.

"Eternally grateful to him. Thinking right now of the three women he adored in his life, his wife Hazel and his daughters Kerri and Tara.

"Codladh sámh Larry," she wrote. 

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A post shared by Miriam O Callaghan (@instmiriam)

Offering condolences on RIP.ie, Bryan Dobson wrote: "I am so sorry to hear the sad news of Larry's passing. He was the most talented of television producers, made it look easy but I know also worked hard at his craft, and the very best of company. To come round a corner in RTE and see Larry coming towards you was always a delight.

"There'd be a chat, hurried or a bit more relaxed depending on deadlines, which would put a smile on your face and pep in your step. In particular I looked forward to our conversations about art, one of his passions. My condolences to Hazel and his family". 

"To Hazel and family I’m very sorry for your great loss at this sad time, the late Larry knew what made Ireland tick he had a very intelligent overview of all subjects which in turn made him so successful at his work. Larry was always sincere and made everyone feel as though they were the only person he had to deal with this was a gift in itself may he rest in peace in heaven," wrote Michael Healy Rae TD.

Very sorry to hear this indeed. Always very friendly and kind to me. https://t.co/m9ziFzRwWV

— Dr BRIAN KENNEDY (@KennedySinger) April 16, 2024

Many Irish inland waterway enthusiasts shared fond memories of meeting Mr Masterson along the water and at Lough Derg. 

"Deepest sympathies to Hazel and all Larry's family and friends. Larry was a stalwart supporter of our inland waterways and will be truly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you," wrote Kay Baxter IWAI President.

"I wish I got the chance to tell Larry how much his advice to me over the years helped me navigate my dealings with RTE. A wise and kind gentleman. My sincere condolences to all his family and friends," wrote Brian Kennedy.

Details of Mr Masterson's death on RIP.ie say he died peacefully, with his family by his side in the excellent care of the staff at Blackrock Hospice.

"Beloved husband of Hazel and devoted father of Kerri and Tara. He will be sadly missed by his wife, daughters, sons-in-law Alin and Conor, grandsons Spencer, Ryan and Dylan, sisters Anne and Patricia, brother-in-law Roy, sisters-in-law Frances and Emily, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends," it read. Full funeral details are available here