Brian Farrell (1929-2014) was one of the most respected broadcasters of his generation, as well as a distinguished academic. He covered current affairs on RTÉ for over four decades, including general elections and state funerals. His daytime job was as lecturer and then professor in the Department of Politics at UCD. One of the pioneers of Irish political science, his numerous books and articles made a significant contribution to the advancement of the discipline. And many will agree that the secret to his success was his wife, Marie-Thérèse, and the happy home life they built together with their seven children.