The Last Word with Matt Cooper

This week on the Last Word on TV & Streaming, Joe O'Shea and Elaine Burke join Matt to give you the best recommendations for what to watch over Christmas.From Stranger Things to Amadeus and more you won't be stuck for things to watch over the festive season Hit Play on this page to listen now.

This week on The Last Word on The US Matt is joined by Journalist Marion McKeone and Law Lecturer and Columnist Larry Donnelly to look back on the biggest American stories from the year.They chat about all things Donald Trump, the death of Charlie Kirk and more Hit Play on this page to listen now

With news that Driving Home For Christmas singer Chris Rea has died age 74, John Caddell joins Matt to talk about his career and some of his biggest hitsWe also some memories of Chris Rea from listenersHit Play on this page to listen now

Paschal Donohoe, Managing Director at the World Bank and former Irish Minister for Finance, is joined by journalist Lise Hand to share their top non-fiction picks of the year. They delve into Sarah Wynne-Williams' insider look at Facebook's culture and discuss Simon Jenkins' concise history of America. Donohoe also highlights the implications of globalization in politics, while Hand reflects on Gavan Reilly's insights into Ireland's parliament. Their lively banter illuminates the changing landscape of contemporary literature.

Ambulance services are being abused by late night revellers who call 999 to get them home due to taxi shortages, according to paramedics; a primary school was forced to ask students to bring in their own toilet roll due to funding shortages; and the woman caught up in the viral Coldplay kiss cam has broken her silence. Fionnuala Jones and Dave Hanratty join The Last Word to discuss the week's trending stories. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!

Irish Times columnist and 'An Irish Diary' writer, Frank McNally talks to Matt about his early career in the civil service and how he got into journalism. In his new book, he turns his attention inwards and reflects on his unusual life.Frank's book is called Not Making Hay, The Life And Times Of A 'Diary' Farmer. To listen to the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.

Cara O'Doherty, a savvy film critic, and Brian Lloyd, a passionate film commentator, dive into festive movie magic. They spotlight current big releases like 'Saipan' and the witty new 'Knives Out' alongside beloved classics such as 'The Muppets Christmas Carol' and 'It's a Wonderful Life.' Discussion turns to Timothée Chalamet's riveting role in 'Marty Supreme,' as well as lesser-known gems like 'The Bishop's Wife.' Prepare your holiday watch list with their top TV picks and streaming highlights that promise to deliver warmth this season.

John Gibbons, an environmental commentator and scientist, brings a refreshing outlook on combating climate change. He explores Ireland's strides in renewable energy, highlighting wind and solar advancements. Gibbons discusses the boom in electric vehicle sales, emphasizing their practicality over hybrids, which he argues slow the transition. He tackles battery production concerns while contrasting them with fossil fuel impacts. With optimism, he underscores the need for continued advocacy and the untapped potential of both onshore and offshore wind energy.

Matt is joined by Ian Guider for the annual business review for 2025They look back on some of the biggest business news of the year Hit Play on this page to listen now

This week, tech journalist Andy O'Donoghue shares his top last-minute Christmas gift ideas. He highlights open-ear headphones perfect for outdoor safety and Bluetooth trackers like AirTag to keep belongings secure. Portable power banks like the Anker PowerCore are a must for charging on the go, while easy-to-install smart home gadgets and battery video doorbells make great gifts. For cinephiles and horror fans, curated streaming services like Mubi and Shudder are fantastic options. Plus, kids can enjoy educational tech toys and engaging books on AI.