President Michael D Higgins wrote a touching letter to Sean O'Rourke in his emotional final show on RTE Radio One.
The broadcasting legend hung up his mic on the flagship show on Friday.
All three major party leaders Leo Varadkar, Mary Lou McDonald and Micheal Martin sent a message of appreciation to O'Rourke as he stepped down after seven years at the helm.
And the President was one of the big names to pay a special tribute - even joking that the veteran host could make an appearance on Dancing with the Stars.
Mr Higgins wrote: "Dear Sean,
"Last week upon hearing your announcement that you plan to retire from RTE I wrote to you to send you my best wishes and to thank you for your huge contribution to journalism and public service broadcasting and RTE.
"Today as you are working on your last morning radio show, may I reiterate my tribute to you for your many years of informing the people of Ireland and contributing to the enrichment of public debate in our country.
"We will miss your voice and your insights and being able to refer to matters and people having been on Sean O'Rourke.
"Short of seeing you make the much speculated upon appearance on Dancing with the Stars, you should have the hips for it from the all the golf, and the tango will be a doddle.
"I'm sure we will hear from you as you enter the next chapter in your life may I join with your colleagues and your many friends in wishing you every happiness, health and fulfilment as you lash into this next chapter of your life."
