About this season
The Meaning of Life is an Irish television programme, the first series of which was broadcast on RTÉ One in 2009. It is presented by the veteran broadcaster Gay Byrne. Each episode involves Byrne interviewing a well-known public figure. The series is broadcast each Sunday night at 22:20. In 2010 The Meaning of Life returned for both a second and, later, a third series. Interviews with former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and actors Gabriel Byrne and Brenda Fricker during the second series attracted media attention when they spoke of their religious habits and child sexual abuse respectively. Gay Byrne appeared on The Late Late Show on 18 December 2009 to discuss the programme. A fourth series soon followed. Then a fifth series from January 2012. And a sixth in October 2012. And a seventh in January 2013.
Episodes (6)
1. Terry Wogan
Aired 26 September 2010 • 27 min
Gay Byrne interviews fellow veteran broadcaster Terry Wogan about his thoughts on ageism, religion and a life which has had its highs and lows, its moments of tragedy, laughter and success.
2. Fionnuala Flanagan
Aired 3 October 2010 • 27 min
Emmy and IFTA-winning actress, Fionnula Flanagan, reveals to Gay Byrne how her moral compass owes much more to her ex-communicated, alcoholic revolutionary father than to the nuns who educated her.
3. Deepak Chopra
Aired 10 October 2010 • 26 min
Gay Byrne talks to prolific author and spiritual guide Deepak Chopra about his beliefs and influences.
4. Ian Paisley
Aired 17 October 2010 • 27 min
Gay Byrne talks to Ian Paisley about his beliefs and influences.
5. Micheal O'Muircheartaigh
Aired 24 October 2010 • 27 min
Gay Byrne meets legendary sports broadcaster Micheál Ó Muicheartaigh.
6. Dana
Aired 7 November 2010 • 27 min
Gay Byrne talks to Dana about her beliefs and influences.