[2] He also worked as a leisure development officer for Belfast City Council, before going into broadcasting and journalism.

Kelly's broadcasting career began at Ulster Television as a part-time GAA reporter, but left the station quickly after being blacklisted by the National Union of Journalists.

In September 1989, he began presenting the popular talk and variety show, Kelly, which aired for 571 episodes.

In an interview with the Belfast Telegraph, Kelly said, "I'm leaving UTV on amicable terms and I have nothing but the highest regard for them.

"[18] In March 2009, it was announced that Kelly would be joining BBC Radio Ulster to present a Saturday afternoon programme, commencing in April.

[19] Kelly replaced the Alan Simpson show on BBC Radio Ulster he is on air from 15:00 – 17:00 on Friday Afternoons.

[21] In 1993 he received the Sony Gold Award for a special programme following the Shankill Road bombing.

In 1998 Kelly was installed in the Royal Television Society Hall of Fame in recognition of his lifelong contribution to broadcasting.