Why Van's the Man for Miriam
VAN: Elusive character
SHE's interviewed her pick of high-profile celebs -- but Miriam O'Callaghan admits there's one elusive man who has escaped her clutches.
The popular presenter attracted some half a million viewers when her chat show, Saturday Night With Miriam, returned to the airwaves last weekend.
But she says that although she has nabbed her share of must-see guests, her dream interview would be with musician Van Morrison.
"I prefer to concentrate on homegrown people and I have a great passion for Van Morrison's music, so he would definitely top my wish-list," she admitted.
"I think he's a really talented musician and a very interesting person -- so I'd love to get him on the show and get to find out what makes him tick."
Although the musician is famed for his low profile, the presenter said she believed he would make a good addition to the line-up.
"I know a lot of people say that he's grumpy, but I'd love to have a chat with him and get behind that exterior.
"Even if he came on just to play a song, I'd be very happy."
But ever the realist, Miriam conceded: "To be honest, I think it's very unlikely."
legend
While Miriam may have to wait before the blues legend visits the RTE set, her fans have already been treated to the odd coup -- including an interview with new Tanaiste Mary Coughlan.
Miriam was very proud to welcome the Donegal politician to the show. "She doesn't do a lot of interviews like the chat show, so viewers haven't had the chance to see her in a more relaxed setting," Miriam explained.
"It was a chance for me to ask her questions that I couldn't ask her on Prime Time. I can't exactly turn around on that show and say, 'So, what do you think about the Lisbon Treaty? And by the way how is your son?'
"It wouldn't work very well -- which is why I think having her on was a big draw for audiences."
Adding an extra dimension to the show this season is the addition of new executive producer Cillian Fennell, a Late Late veteran.
- Hannah-Louise Dunne
