Irish TV star Saoírse Ruane has tragically passed away at 12 after a four-year battle with cancer. Her mother, Roseanna, shared on Instagram: “When there are no words. After a long, courageous and dignified battle, our hearts are shattered to tell you our beautiful little Saoirse took her final breath in our arms on Tuesday.”

Saoírse, a star of the Late Late Toy Show, was first diagnosed in 2019 after an ankle injury revealed a cancerous Osteosarcoma tumor in her tibia. In 2020, she underwent a leg amputation. Despite her illness, she achieved some dreams, visiting Old Trafford and Disneyland.

Her cancer returned in 2022, spreading to her lungs. Roseanna recalled her bravery: “Saoírse is the bravest soul we know and her one and only request… was to put up the Christmas tree.”

Tributes poured in nationwide. President Higgins said, “Saoírse’s strength and warmth was an inspiration to all.” Ryan Tubridy remembered her as “selfless, humble, kind, optimistic and thoughtful… The world is a poorer place without Saoírse.”

Saoírse’s funeral will be held at St Peter and Paul’s Church, Kiltullagh, on Sunday at 1.45pm. May she rest in peace.