Mairead Ronan is an Irish television and radio presenter and author. Known for her engaging media presence, she has hosted shows such as Ireland's Fittest Family and The Mairead Ronan Show. After retiring from full-time broadcasting in 2021, Ronan embraced a quieter lifestyle, focusing on her family, entrepreneurial ventures and creative pursuits.
Her book What We Know Now (2024), co-written with close friend Jenny Kelly, reflects on two decades of friendship and the lessons learned from life's challenges and triumphs.
Mairead Ronan was born in Finglas on Dublin's Northside. She initially studied Human Resources Management before switching to media studies at Ballyfermot College of Further Education, a decision that launched her into a successful broadcasting career. Over two decades, she became a household name in Irish media, known for her dynamic presence on both radio and television.
Mairead Ronan’s career in media began with an internship at Today FM, where her talent and work ethic quickly led her to roles as a broadcasting assistant, producer, and, eventually, on-air contributor. She became a familiar voice to audiences through The Ray D’Arcy Show and later hosted her show, The Mairead Ronan Show. She hosted various television programmes, including the long-running competition show Ireland’s Fittest Family.
In 2019, she gained further recognition when she won Dancing with the Stars Ireland. Despite her professional success, Ronan boldly decided to step away from full-time broadcasting in 2021 to put her family first.
This shift allowed her to focus on other passions, including FARO, the hairstyling brand she co-founded in 2016. The idea for FARO was born out of Ronan’s own experiences preparing for television appearances, combining her favourite elements of hairstyling tools into a streamlined, user-friendly product. The brand has since gained a loyal following. Additionally, her podcast Jenny and Mairead Now! has become a hit, offering listeners an entertaining and candid look at life’s ups and downs.
In What We Know Now, Ronan and Kelly bring the same honesty and relatability that have defined their careers. Drawing on personal experiences of motherhood, marriage, career changes and loss, the book offers insights into navigating adult relationships and finding joy in everyday moments. With a blend of humour and wisdom, Ronan and Kelly explore themes such as self-acceptance, friendship and the importance of identifying what matters in life.
Mairead Ronan lives in Dublin with her husband, Louis Ronan and their three children.