RTE Ireland's Fittest Family viewers moved by poignant episode featuring late teen contestant

Ireland's Fittest Family viewers were deeply moved by last night's episode, which featured the family of 15-year-old Cillian Flaherty, a contestant who tragically passed away before the episode aired. The teenager from Dublin died suddenly at his home on October 21, 2024.

Ahead of the broadcast, RTE issued a heartfelt statement, saying: "The Flaherty family have watched the series and given their full support for it to go ahead."

The broadcaster also paid tribute to Cillian on social media, writing: "Remembering Cillian Flaherty. His spirit, determination, and strength shone brightly on Ireland's Fittest Family. As his family's episode airs this evening, our thoughts are with his loved ones."

Many fans of the show took to social media to share their condolences and admiration for the Flaherty family. One viewer wrote: "Thinking of Cillian's family watching tonight as fittest family is aired, it’s just a heartbreaking time for you and so hard to believe that he is no longer with you all. He was a fine young man with his whole life to live, it's just so cruel. Rest in Peace Cillian."

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Another shared a personal connection, writing: "So proud of my pal Cillian. Absolutely smashed it. You were so excited for this my bro, and to say u done amazing is an understatement, keep shining from wherever it is you are."

A third comment read: "Words cannot express how heartbroken I, as a stranger, feel for you all at this most difficult time. May your love for each other and Cillian give you strength. Thinking of you all."

Someone else posted: "Very emotional watching the show tonight knowing that Cillian had passed away. Cillian, you showed the nation what a super talented individual you were (super fast!)and the beautiful relationship you held with your family. I'm sure your family & friends are broken far beyond words can repair but I send them all my deepest sympathies. "

Others commended the family’s bravery in allowing the episode to air, with one writing: "That was so sad to watch tonight what a brave family to let that show go ahead what great memories for them n how Cillian was great in all the challenges as were they all, taken way to soon, God Bless his Family n Sleep well with the Angels Cillian."

The Flaherty family were due to feature in the new series, which usually airs before Christmas, however out of respect for Cillian's memory and his grieving family, RTE delayed the release of the episodes. The episodes were recorded in Wicklow's Killruddery Estate during the summer, and all necessary filming and editing had been completed before the tragic news emerged.

The series was postponed to “honour Cillian Flaherty’s memory and provide space for his family during such a difficult time”.

The third-year student was found dead in his at home in October of last year.

Ireland’s Fittest Family shows 16 families as they undergo tests of speed, strength and endurance. Sporting stars Anna Geary, Sonia O’Sullivan, Donncha O’Callaghan and Davy Fitzgerald mentor the families on the show, and it is hosted by Laura Fox.

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