“Raw and honest.”
RTE viewers were left “in tears” last night following an emotional documentary about the life of Charlie Bird.
Charlie Bird: Loud and Clear gave an intimate insight into the veteran journalist’s long career, where he reported on the Stardust tragedy, the Troubles and many other important historic moments.
It also delved his Motor Neurone disease diagnosis in October 2021 and the impact it’s had on him and his family.
One heartbreaking scene saw Charlie and his wife, Claire, visit his eventual resting place, a graveyard on the island of Inis Oirr, the smallest one of the Aran Islands.
Following the airing of the feature length documentary, Charlie took to Twitter to say:
“I want to thank everyone for the amazing support I have received since my diagnosis of a terminal illness . The humanity of people is hard for me to put into words. But the hands of friendship extended to me has helped me cope with the journey I am on. A big hug to everyone.”
I want to thank everyone for the amazing support I have received since my diagnosis of a terminal illness .
The humanity of people is hard for me to put into words.
But the hands of friendship extended to me has helped me cope with the journey I am on. A big hug to everyone.— Charlie Bird (@charliebird49) June 13, 2022
“This is so raw and honest. The graveyard scene broke me. Huge admiration for this man, legend,” one person wrote.
“My heart. Jesus Charlie Bird is an example on what is to be a bloody good human being, what it is to be a journalist with empathy, to be one of the people. Such an admirable man. These are the heroes we need,” a second added.
“Oh Charlie. What a beautiful programme. In tears watching. Such honesty,” a third added.
Meanwhile, others praised Claire for the unwavering support and love she’s shown her husband during in his illness. Throughout the documentary, Claire spoke candidly about the toll the disease has taken on their relationship.
“Isn’t Claire Bird just the most amazing supportive and loving partner you could ask for. Her strength and commitment to Charlie is just inspiring to watch. She is so amazing,” one person wrote.
