A Deep Bond: Brendan Courtney Reflects on Friendship with Late Hugh Wallace and His Husband
Renowned RTÉ presenter Brendan Courtney has stepped into a significant role, taking over from the late Hugh Wallace to complete the filming of the popular series Great House Revival. However, the connection between Courtney and Wallace runs far deeper than this professional undertaking. Courtney revealed to Miriam O’Callaghan on RTÉ Radio 1 that he had known Hugh for many decades, and his friendship with Hugh’s husband, Martin Corbett, stretches back even further. This long-standing relationship has provided Courtney with a unique perspective on the enduring love between Wallace and Corbett.
Courtney, 54, shared intimate details about the couple’s relationship, highlighting a remarkable absence of conflict. “I have known Martin for years from the scene. We always had a mutual respect and got on,” he recalled. He painted a vivid picture of their younger days, recounting how he and Martin would frequent Dublin’s vibrant gay bars together. In contrast, Hugh was often perceived by his peers as a highly desirable bachelor.
The serendipitous meeting of Hugh and Martin occurred at The George nightclub back in 1988, marking the beginning of their enduring love story. “Hugh was kind of famous on the scene,” Brendan told Miriam. “He had this successful business, and when Martin ended up with him, we were all like ‘wow.’”
Their relationship quickly became a benchmark for others. “They were always the couple you wanted at your table. They were the life of the party,” Brendan reminisced, his voice tinged with emotion. “My heart breaks for Martin.”
The couple, who officially tied the knot in 2012, long before Hugh became a recognisable face on television, cultivated a relationship characterised by unwavering harmony. Courtney elaborated on their remarkable dynamic, stating, “I never heard a cross word between them.” He added with a touch of humour, “I did see a few eyerolls though.”
Brendan spoke with profound admiration for Hugh, describing him as “a gorgeous human surrounded by people who love him.”
The sudden passing of Hugh Wallace on December 1, 2025, at the age of 68, came as a profound shock to Courtney. He revealed that in the days leading up to Hugh’s death, he had believed the architect was entering what he considered to be the most fulfilling period of his life.
“I saw him on the Friday before, and he had lost a bit of weight, and he had a tan. He was looking really well,” Courtney recounted. “I had been joking that there might be a BAFTA on the cards.” The timing of Hugh’s passing was particularly poignant, as his life seemed to be reaching a new zenith. “Hugh and Martin’s furniture was arriving for their new home, and everything was just coming together. I remember thinking his life is really beginning now in his sixties. And then he sadly passed.”
Courtney’s reflections offer a touching tribute to a cherished friend and a beloved public figure, underscoring the depth of his connection to Hugh Wallace and his enduring friendship with Martin Corbett. The legacy of their relationship, built on mutual respect, shared joy, and profound love, continues to inspire.
