WATCH: DANIEL O’DONNELL GIVES IRISH GRAN THE SURPRISE OF A LIFETIME ON FLIGHT TO AMERICA
Dublin, Ireland — It was the birthday celebration no one on board will ever forget. Passengers on an Aer Lingus flight from Dublin to Chicago were treated to a spontaneous in-flight concert when beloved Donegal singer Daniel O’Donnell serenaded an Irish grandmother named Annie with a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday.”
The heartwarming moment, captured on video and shared by Aer Lingus, quickly went viral, melting hearts across Ireland and beyond.
Before the surprise began, an air hostess announced over the intercom:
💬 “We have a very special lady on board, Miss Annie, celebrating a milestone birthday — and we have a very special surprise for her now.”
Then came the voice everyone recognized. Rising from his seat with a smile, Daniel took the intercom and began to sing — his rich Donegal tone instantly filling the cabin. Passengers joined in, clapping along and cheering as Annie beamed with delight. When the song ended, Daniel leaned down to give her a warm hug and kiss, drawing more applause from the crowd.
💬 “Go, Annie, it’s your birthday!” Aer Lingus captioned the clip on social media, where it’s now racked up thousands of views.
In the background, Daniel’s wife Majella could be seen smiling proudly from behind the curtain — clearly amused by the impromptu moment that turned an ordinary flight into something truly special.
Fans flooded Twitter and Facebook with praise for the singer, calling the gesture “pure Daniel” — kind, spontaneous, and full of heart.
One commenter wrote: “Lovely gesture — he never forgets his fans.” Another added: “That’s the Daniel we all know and love — down to earth and full of joy.”
Daniel, affectionately known as “Wee Daniel” to fans, has long been celebrated not just for his music but for his humility and warmth. His surprise serenade reminded everyone why he remains one of Ireland’s most cherished entertainers.
For Annie, it was a moment she’ll never forget — and for everyone on board, it was proof that sometimes, the sweetest memories happen miles above the ground.
A birthday in the sky, a song from the heart — and one Irish legend making the world smile once again.