Ryan Tubridy has opened up on the reasons why he quit Twitter.

The RTE star bowed out of social media two years ago, abandoning his 60,000 odd followers on Twitter, after he was subject to trolling.

Speaking to Diana Bunici for her new book The Pursuit of Awesomeness, Tubs said, "I'd rather read a good book than what some guy in a bedsit watching Star Trek thinks about me. I made a decision to go offline a couple of years ago and it's the best thing that's ever happened."

In the early days of his career the 42-year-old presenter admits he kept an eye on reviews.

"When I started out I definitely kept on top of critique and criticism. Sometimes I would read reviews that weren't so nice, and my morale and ego would be bruised," he said.

"As my career got bigger and I got more attention, it became water off a duck's back stuff.

"Then online came along and, honestly, if you want to depress yourself as a broadcaster, read online. If I could switch off the internet sometimes I would especially for kids and bullying and all the things that are so easy to do for cowards."

Tubridy is one of several stars interviewed by rising star Bunici for her book, which is crammed with advice from role models and professionals including Tubs, Hozier, Rory McIroy, Laura Whitmore and more.

Speaking about building a career in TV, Tubridy said he initially saw himself in radio as he thought "you had to be an ex-boyband member to be on the box, and unfortunately that wasn't on the cards."

Although he presents RTE One's Late Late Show every Friday night, he says his first love is still radio where he and his guests are less likely to be judged on their appearance.

The Pursuit of Awesomeness by Diana Bunici is published by Liberties Press.

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