Farewell to NPR's The Thistle and Shamrock

After four decades of providing a unique perspective on Irish and Scottish culture, NPR's The Thistle & Shamrock® will come to an end on September 30th. Show creator, producer, and host Fiona Ritchie shares her reflections on the show's legacy and her gratitude for the listeners who have supported it over the years.

NPR's The Thistle & Shamrock®, a beloved radio program that has explored the rich cultures of Ireland and Scotland for four decades, will bid farewell to its listeners on September 30th. Show creator, producer, and host Fiona Ritchie announced the bittersweet news in a heartfelt note to audience members, expressing her gratitude for their unwavering support throughout the show's journey.

"It is with both a heavy heart and a sense of deep gratitude that I announce that NPR's The Thistle & Shamrock® will end its broadcast on September 30, 2023," Ritchie wrote. "For four decades, this program has been a labor of love, a testament to the indomitable spirit and vibrant traditions of the Irish and Scottish people."

Farewell to NPR's The Thistle and Shamrock

Over the years, The Thistle & Shamrock® has delved into an extraordinary range of topics, from the history of Irish music to the complexities of Scottish politics, from the enduring legacy of Celtic literature to the triumphs and tribulations of contemporary Irish and Scottish artists. Ritchie's passion for her subjects was evident in every episode, as she brought together a diverse array of voices and perspectives to create a rich and multifaceted tapestry of these two fascinating cultures.

"The show has been a bridge between Ireland, Scotland, and the United States," Ritchie reflected. "It has introduced American listeners to the extraordinary talent and creativity of Irish and Scottish musicians, writers, and thinkers. And it has given a platform to Irish and Scottish voices to share their stories, their hopes, and their dreams with the world."

The Thistle & Shamrock® has been a beacon of cultural enrichment and understanding, fostering a greater appreciation for the unique contributions of Ireland and Scotland to the global landscape. It has also been a source of comfort and connection for countless listeners who have found solace and inspiration in its stories and music.

"I am eternally grateful to the talented producers, engineers, and musicians who have worked on the show over the years," Ritchie acknowledged. "Their dedication and enthusiasm have been an invaluable asset to its success. And most of all, I want to thank our listeners for their unwavering support. Your letters, emails, and phone calls have been a constant source of encouragement."

While the weekly broadcast of The Thistle & Shamrock® may be coming to an end, its legacy will continue to resonate through the archives of NPR, where listeners can revisit past episodes and delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Irish and Scottish culture.

"The Thistle & Shamrock® has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember," Ritchie concluded. "It has shaped my understanding of the world and the people in it. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have hosted this program, and I will cherish the memories we have made together."

As The Thistle & Shamrock® prepares for its final chapter, it does so with the enduring spirit and unwavering passion that have defined its remarkable four-decade journey. The show may be ending, but the cultural legacy it has fostered will continue to inspire and connect generations to come.