Michael Flatley announces the death of his wife, Niamh O’Brien at age 52: ‘My heart is broken’
Updated . First published
Family and friends are paying tribute to Michael Flatley’s wife Niamh O’Brien after he shared the devastating news that has died at age 52.
The Lord Of The Dance star’s sister Thomasina Griffin left a touching comment on the post, which read: “The most devastating day! The sweetest kindest sister-in-law anyone could ever ask for. Michael we all love you and are here for you and Michael St James. May she [rest in peace].”
Michael Flatley has announced the devastating news that his wife, Niamh O’Brien has died at age 52. Getty Images for The Irish Post
Michael shared a heartbreaking statement to Instagram on Tuesday morning Australian time, and asked for fans to keep his family in their prayers.
“My heart is broken. I have lost my beautiful wife, Niamh, and my best friend,” the statement started.
“My gorgeous bride of twenty years has gone to the Lord in Heaven. She was the most loving mother, wife and person, and our lives will never be the same without her.
“Thank you for all the love and kindness you have shown us. Please keep Niamh, Michael St James, and our family in your thoughts and prayers. Michael ❤️.”
Flatley’s post has been flooded with messages of condolences and support for the whole family, with famous friends and fans offering love and support during this difficult time.
Rivals actress Victoria Smurfit commented: “No! Michael am so incredibly sorry to hear this shocking news. All love to you and your lad. She was a beauty inside and out.”
Irish TV presenter Kathryn Thomas wrote: “I’m so so sorry. Such shocking news to hear. Your Beautiful Niamh. Sending so much love to you and your family.”
Niamh reportedly passed away peacefully at the Beacon Hospital in south Dublin, “following a period of illness”, a representative said.
Michael shared a series of pictures, including one from their wedding day alongside the statement. Instagram/@michaelflatleyofficial
A statement from Michael’s representative added: “[The Flatley and O’Brien families] express their sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at Beacon Hospital who cared for Niamh over the past few weeks, and to everyone who has offered their kindness and support to the family.”
Niamh had been unwell for several years and was only hours away from being flown to the US for specialist treatment, according to the Irish Independent.
Niamh, who was also a professional dancer, started performing at just three years old and appeared in Riverdance, Lord Of The Dance, Feet Of Flames and the Celtic Tiger.
The couple met on the set of Riverdance, but they didn’t strike up a romance until 2006.
They married the same year in Fermoy, County Cork, before welcoming their son Michael Saint James in 2007.
Michael and Niamh were married for close to 20 years. Getty
Michael, who has been through his own battle with cancer, has previously spoken about how Niamh was his rock during that time.
“I was haemorrhaging and convulsing on a hospital bed and I kept passing out. They couldn’t give me the painkillers necessary,” he told the Irish Independent last year.
“There were some wonderful nurses that were trying to help me, but they were invisible to me because of the pain, but I will never forget opening my eyes one of the times that I came to, and my wife was there.
“And my wife was smiling. Can you imagine the courage from my wife, to put on a smile in that position? The courage that took?”
