The Den Timeline
The Den was presented by a number of well-known names in Ireland, including Ian Dempsey and Ray D'Arcy, both of whom now present morning shows with the radio station Today FM. The Den was also responsible for introducing a number of anthropomorphic characters to Irish culture, such as Zig and Zag, Podge and Rodge and Dustin the Turkey. These have gone on to have highly successful careers in a vast array of areas; Zig and Zag transferred to Channel 4 and are currently promoting their own DVD, Best Bitz from Back Den, Podge and Rodge possess a highly successful late-night chat show and Dustin achieved global recognition in 2008 when he represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest.
The Den had a number of former names including; Dempsey's Den, Den TV and Den2. The strand aired from 06:00 to 17:30 each weekday, with the brand also being used on weekend mornings. It received a complete makeover, with a change in format and a brand new visual identity, on Saturday 17 September 2005.
As well as airing on RTÉ Two, The Den has its own electronic programme guide placement on UPC Ireland, channel 601.
The Den had a reputation for airing many new episodes of shows such as Yu-Gi-Oh! GX, Totally Spies!, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, etc. before any other network in Europe.
As part of RTÉ's seasonal changes for 2010-11, The Den was scrapped and replaced by two age-specific brands. The Den and Den Tots were replaced by TRTÉ and RTÉjr respectively.
Read more about this topic: The Den (television)