Free State with Joe Brolly and Dion Fanning Michael Lyster: When We Were Kings
Mar 24, 2026
They remember a broadcaster who shaped summers and relaxed studios with calm, effortless poise. Conversations explore the freewheeling behind-the-scenes culture of sports TV and the quiet authority that kept big personalities in check. Stories range from rally driving adventures to the power of familiar pundits and a critique of modern, corporate sports coverage.
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Effortless Anchoring Creates Authentic TV
- Michael Lyster anchored by melting into the background, creating a relaxed, entertaining studio dynamic.
- Joe Brolly says Lyster's effortless anchoring let panels ramble into genuine conversation rather than scripted narration.
Keeping Pace With Michael On A Night Out
- Joe recounts drinking with Michael Lyster in the RTÉ social club and being unable to keep pace with his cider consumption.
- He describes feeling anaesthetised after an hour and thereafter matching Lyster at roughly half his pace.
Entertainment First Approach To Sports TV
- Lyster treated sports TV as entertainment, not a scripted newsroom, prioritising audience enjoyment.
- Joe contrasts Lyster's freewheeling approach with modern scripted, committee-driven broadcasts.