Kilkenny family to appear on popular TV series as RTE give the green light to air the programme
The show, now in its twelfth series was originally due to be aired in November
The Cummins family from Kilkenny City are set to appear on TV screens in January having taken part in RTE’s ‘Ireland’s Fittest Family’.
The popular RTE show, now in its 12th series, pits families from across the country against each other in different adventure races and fitness competitions in an effort to win a cash prize and the coveted title of ‘Ireland’s Fittest Family’.
Paul, Zac, Bryce and Hallie all took on the gruelling course earlier this year.
“So finally it’s public. Myself, Zac, Bryce and Hallie competed in Ireland’s Fittest Family TV competition 2024 over the summer,” Paul posted to social media.
“If you think you would enjoy watching me suffer and see my kids pull me over, under and through stuff and probably save me from dying a few times all while Davy Fitz motivates in only a way Davy Fitz can, then tune in and enjoy the ride,” he added.
The programme, which was originally scheduled to be aired in November, was postponed following the death of a contestant in October.
Cillian Flaherty, 15, filmed the show with his family over the summer and was remembered by his school Blakestown Community School in Blanchardstown as a popular student who will be ‘hugely missed’.
But after much doubt as to whether the programme would be aired or not, RTE gave the show the green light on Monday with a tribute to the deceased participant believed be included.
Speaking about RTE and the family’s involvement, Cillian’s brother Kian said, “Fair play to them all (RTE) for pulling the plug on it, they respect us. They all came out to us in the last couple of days
“It could come out next week or in six months and we are still going to watch it the same way, we are going to be heartbroken,” he said.
“We are all devastated and heartbroken to hear this unbelievably sad news, me and my family’s thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, may he rest in peace,” Paul Cummins posted to social media following the news.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for RTE said, “RTÉ and Kite/Animo productions wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved family and friends at this time.
This year marks the twelfth season of Ireland’s Fittest Family. The show features Davy Fitzgerald, Anna Geary, Donncha O’Callaghan, and Sonia O’Sullivan as the celebrity coaches this season.