Celebrity, secrets and lies: Ireland watches as scandal engulfs RTÉ

National broadcaster embroiled in a real-life drama over clandestine payments to its star presenter

It has become Ireland's top-rated show - a tale of celebrity, secrets and lies that has entranced the public and dominated the airwaves. Some reckon it is the most gripping drama ever produced by RTE.

Unfortunately for the national broadcaster, it is an all too real scandal over clandestine payments that has engulfed its star presenter and senior managers and planted a question mark over RTE's future.