Ever-green 'Good Day New York' host Greg Kelly lives for Saint Patrick's Day

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Hot off the stage after interviewing country music newcomer Blake Shelton, Fox 5’s "Good Day New York" co-host Greg Kelly took time out of his demanding schedule to speak about his Irish heritage, the passion he has for his career and his plans for this coming St. Patrick’s Day.

Kelly, 41, is the son of New York Police Commissioner Ray Kelly. Although there are traces of his dad in his ruggedly handsome features, Kelly stands alone in his exceptional career as a journalist and television anchor.  Kelly spoke about growing up in Garden City, Long Island in a very Irish family.

“Our Irish heritage was always very important to us,” said Kelly, while polishing off a fish dish cooked on the popular morning show a half-hour before.

“Every year during St. Patrick’s week we would all attend our local parade in Long Island and of course eat corn beef and cabbage and wear lots of green,” smiles Kelly while reminiscing. “They were great times, and this year is going to be very special.”

That’s because Kelly’s father has been chosen to lead the 249th annual New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade down Fifth Avenue on Wednesday, March 17.

“I’m so proud of my father, I can’t tell you how much this means to us,” Kelly said eagerly.

“As a little kid we always learned about the importance of the grand marshal and took pride in St. Patrick’s Day, and now to have our own dad lead the parade in New York is unexpected. It’s nice and so special. It makes me so proud,” said Kelly, whose translucent brown eyes lit up when he spoke about something so close to his heart.

Kelly, whose great grandparents hail from counties Roscommon, Longford and Cavan, will spend this St. Patrick’s Day marching with his family through the streets of New York City as his father heads the parade.
“It will be 48-hours of non-stop activity but I’m looking forward to it,” he smiled.

However, before Kelly gets to have some family fun, he will celebrate the day on Good Day New York.

“Each year we bring on Irish guests and at some point we will have my father on,” said Kelly.

The police commissioner is no stranger to the show. When asked if he has interviewed his father before, Kelly said “Oh yes, maybe about 10 or so times.”

He said there is usually good banter between the pair.

“I would have fun with him, saying, ‘Who’s your favorite son, me or James,’” he laughs.

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Nster.com