IRELAND AM star Muireann O’Connell has been left gutted as she revealed her pal Joe Shannon was “always smiling” even when he was in pain.
The celebrity chef, who was a regular on Ireland AM for 18 years, has sadly passed away aged 59 after his battle with cancer.
Joe was diagnosed with bowel cancer after doctors discovered a blockage in his intestines in March 2021.
He passed away “peacefully and surrounded by his family” in the loving care of staff at North West Hospice in his native Co Sligo today.
The Sligo native had been a regular on the kitchen segment of the hit morning show for many years.
Instagram this afternoon after hearing the tragic news to pay tribute to her “fabulous” pal.
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She said: “Today we heard the terrible news that the lovely Joe Shannon has passed away.
“Joe has been working on Ireland AM as a chef for years by the time I arrived and he was just so lovely to me even though I couldn’t turn on a cooker.
“He had such a good time with the lads every time he was in studio.”
Despite the extremely tough time Joe went through, he always remained positive and cheerful.
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The Limerick presenter explained: “He was an all round fabulous person. He was kind and he had time for absolutely everyone and he was always smiling, even though there were days we could see he was in pain.
“My thoughts are with his wife, Marie, his children, Emer, Orla and Joseph and all his family and friends.
“He had such a positive impact on the world and will be sorely missed. We need a few more people like Joe.
“Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.”
Ireland AM bosses have also confirmed that there will be a special segment on the show tomorrow morning dedicated to Joe.
They wrote on Instagram: “We’ve some sad news to share today as our much-loved chef and friend Joe Shannon passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by his family in Sligo.
“Joe brought such joy to Ireland AM for the last 18 years and often spoke openly about his terminal cancer diagnosis.
“He inspired us and so many viewers with his positive outlook, often stating that he felt lucky to have had a good life.
“Our condolences go out to his wife, Marie, his children Orla, Emer, Joseph and extended family.
JOYFUL JOE
“We will be remembering Joe tomorrow morning on Ireland AM.”
The Irish star’s Tommy Bowe on the hit morning show.
Joe had opened up about his health battle saying: “I’m going through a bit of a tough time at the minute but I’m going in for chemo today, starting a new batch of six sessions.
“On this road, there can be ups and downs or whatever.
“At the moment I’m going through some problems internally so they need to check that today.
“But look it, I’m looking down at the grass, I’m upright so things are good. I’m on Ireland AM, what more could I ask for?”
Ireland AM viewers have also been left devastated by the huge loss and have shared their condolences.
Nuala wrote: “I never met Joe, but really enjoyed his banter on the show. Sincere sympathies to Joe’s family & friends & all at.”
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Kelly said: “So sad to hear this, a gentleman.
Condolences to all his family.”
Aoife commented: “Such a lovely warm and jolly man. Always great fun watching him with Tommy and Alan on the show.”