Dermot Kennedy Donates €20,000 to Barretstown After Radio Quiz Win
Dublin singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy turned a routine radio quiz appearance into a substantial donation for a children’s charity this morning, pledging and delivering €20,000 to Barretstown following a win on RTÉ 2FM’s breakfast show.
Kennedy surprised listeners of ’s broadcast of “Breakfast with Carl, Roz and Aisling” by calling in to participate in the show’s A to Z quiz. The segment, a regular feature on the program, challenges guests to answer questions based on consecutive letters of the alphabet within a 90-second timeframe. Before the quiz began, Kennedy committed to doubling his winnings and donating the total amount to Barretstown, an organization providing free camps and programs for children and families affected by serious illness.
“If I win… I’ll double that and send €20,000 to Barretstown,” Kennedy stated on air, according to reports. He successfully completed the quiz, earning €10,000 for the charity, and immediately matched it with a personal donation of the same amount, fulfilling his pledge.
The gesture was met with enthusiasm by the show’s hosts, Carl Mullan, Roz Purcell, and Aisling Bonner, and quickly gained traction online. Kennedy, known for his introspective lyrics and emotionally resonant performances, has cultivated a dedicated fanbase, and the act of generosity resonated strongly with his followers.
“I feel good, man. I feel good,” Kennedy said after the result was confirmed, adding a lighthearted note by expressing relief at not having “disgrace[d]” himself during the quiz, jokingly referencing a particularly challenging question involving a “Yaris.”
Barretstown, based in County Kildare, Ireland, offers a range of therapeutic programs designed to rebuild confidence and support families navigating the challenges of serious illness. The organization provides all services, including accommodation, food, and medical support, free of charge to families. The donation from Kennedy will contribute directly to the continuation of these vital programs.
Kennedy’s appearance on the show was described as a surprise, with presenter Carl Mullan initially teasing a mystery celebrity guest. The singer-songwriter revealed his identity to the hosts, mentioning that he regularly listens to the show “anytime I’m at home.” He also shared a glimpse into his personal life, noting he hails from Rathcoole and enjoys “a few pints on the weekend.”
The donation comes at a time when charitable organizations are facing increased demand for their services. The ongoing impact of global health crises and economic uncertainties has placed a greater strain on resources, making contributions like Kennedy’s particularly impactful. The Journal reported on the donation just hours after the broadcast, highlighting the speed with which the story gained prominence.
Kennedy’s commitment to Barretstown underscores a growing trend among artists using their platforms to support causes they believe in. While celebrity endorsements and charitable partnerships are common, Kennedy’s direct financial contribution and public commitment to doubling his winnings set this instance apart. It’s a move that aligns with his public persona as an artist deeply connected to his community and empathetic to the struggles of others.
RTÉ 2FM Breakfast with Carl, Roz and Aisling broadcasts weekdays from 6am to 9am, and the segment featuring Kennedy is available for replay on the station’s website and podcast platforms. The show’s reach and Kennedy’s popularity combined to amplify the message of support for Barretstown, potentially inspiring further donations and raising awareness of the organization’s work.
The singer’s next scheduled performances include dates across Europe and North America throughout and , with tickets currently available through his official website. While Kennedy’s musical career continues to flourish, his recent act of generosity demonstrates a commitment to using his success to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.