The much-loved 76-year-old sports anchor, who overcame a number of health issues in recent years, began his career at the age of 16 when he started writing for the Cork Examiner before eventually joining RTÉ in 1976.
During his time with the national broadcaster, Bill hosted major sporting events including the World Cup, the Olympic Games and the European Football Championships.
Having won numerous awards during his time as a broadcaster with the station, Bill signed off for the final time in 2014 and paid tribute to sport pundits Eamon Dunphy and John Giles, saying: “I’ll thank the lads because I piggy backed on their talent and their knowledge."
Commenting on the tragic news, RTÉ released a statement today saying: "Everyone in RTÉ is devastated at today’s news. Bill O’Herlihy was a giant of the sporting and broadcasting worlds in this country. His contribution to broadcasting was utterly unique. For decades he was at the centre of some of Ireland’s greatest sporting moments."
Paying tribute to Bill's personable nature, Noel Curran, Director General of RTÉ said: "He never hid his emotions on those big occasions, from disappointment to utter joy, and for this he was greatly loved. But he was also a fantastic broadcaster and interviewer, getting the very best out of his interview panels and provoking debate and insight, and for this he was also hugely admired."
Reports suggest the broadcaster may have suffered a heart attack, but this has yet to be confirmed.
Bill is survived by his wife Hillary, daughters Jill and Sally as well as extended family, friends, and colleagues.
RTÉ has lost two of its most well-known faces in recent weeks with Bill's death following the untimely demise of veteran broadcaster Derek Davis earlier this month.
