Friday, 6th March 2015
Screenshot by dltourhistory
Def Leppard made a special appearance in Irish TV in late 1997 performing a playback version of When Saturday Comes.
RTE TV's The Late Late Show hosted by Gay Byrne held a special two hour tribute to Irish footballer Paul McGrath.
The Irish legend was about to start his testimonial year. He had played for Manchester United in England and was currently playing for Joe's home team Sheffield United.
The appearance dates from 17th October 1997. Other than being the only time this song was ever "performed", it is notable as the only time Joe performed (w/ Def Leppard) with his infamous "dreadlocks" hairdo.
Joe had been seen with this look at the Kerrang! Awards (1997) and on the August 1997 tour by The Spiders From Mars - who later became The Cybernauts.
The existence of this appearance was discovered a few years back with not many details and believed to have been "live" but obviously is not.
You may notice some fun at the end when Phil decides to keep playing riffs rather than try to play along to his end soloing.
The song originates from March 1996 when it was used in the football movie of the same name starring Sean Bean. It was included on the soundtrack album along with the instrumental 'Jimmy's Theme'.
Watch the full ultra rare performance below (playback only including vocals) as posted on YT by killianm2. You can also read a quote about the show by Paul from February 1998.
Note - Information updated. It was from October 1997. This is shown on the crystal glass presented during the end of the video. The press details for Paul's 2012 appearance on this show also mention it was his first time on it for 15 years.
Paul McGrath - The Late Late Show Comments February 1998
She has reconstructed his self-confidence to the point where he was able to sit albeit edgily at times through the recent two-hour Late Late Show tribute. And he is glad he did now. "To be honest, my legs went,'' he grins.
"But I've watched it since on video and it's something I'll always treasure. That RTE did an entire show on me was...well...just frightening. One of the nicest compliments I've ever been paid.''
- Def Leppard - Television
- Def Leppard - Slang Tour 1996/1997
- Previous News - 4th March 2015