- Public professional setbacks can have severe private emotional consequences, as Muireann experienced depression for months.
- Strong family bonds can amplify the pain of public criticism, with Muireann’s focus being on her parents’ embarrassment.
- A supportive work environment is crucial for recovery, and Virgin Media’s positive culture was instrumental for her.
In a candid revelation, popular Irish television presenter Muireann O’Connell has shared the profound emotional impact of her very public firing from Today FM in 2019.
Despite now hosting Virgin Media’s flagship breakfast show, Ireland AM, the experience left deep scars.
Muireann’s Initial Reaction to the Today FM Axe
Muireann O’Connell did not take her sudden dismissal from Today FM lightly. After dedicating twelve years to the station, she felt a strong sense of loyalty, making the abrupt termination especially painful. She admitted,
“I dealt with it really badly. I worked there for twelve years and I felt this loyalty to the place, but to them, I’m just another number.”
This experience taught her a harsh lesson about the corporate world:
“I just think that companies, especially modern-day companies… we’re all just numbers”
The Emotional Fallout and Family Impact
The public nature of the axe intensified Muireann’s distress. She described it as “horrible” and revealed it took a significant emotional toll, stating she “couldn’t get out of bed for six months.” Her primary concern, however, was for her parents. She shared,
“I just kept thinking about them being mortified and being embarrassed and having to talk to their friends.”
Her mother, Marie, was particularly “devastated” by the very public career setback.
Virgin Media’s Supportive Role After the Firing
A silver lining emerged when Virgin Media, where Muireann was already working, offered unwavering support. Contrary to her fears of being seen as “tainted” or “s**t,” her colleagues rallied behind her. She recalled,
“They were so brilliant to me the day that it was announced that I was fired… there were loads of people waiting out the back, just friends of mine, going, ‘Come on in here, let’s get it sorted’.”
This supportive environment contrasted sharply with her previous experience. She credits Virgin Media for encouraging her to try new things and fostering a positive workplace culture.
Moving On: A Lasting Aversion to Radio
The ordeal has fundamentally changed Muireann’s relationship with radio. Despite her successful past on air, the manner of her departure from Today FM left a “sour taste.” She stated,
“I think I’m done with it now. If I was that good what happened wouldn’t have happened.”
She explained that such a “hammer blow” leads to intense self-doubt, making you question “your worth, your life, who you are.” She has since found contentment and success in her television career, effectively closing the door on a return to radio.
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Last Updated on August 20, 2025 by 247 News Around The World
