Michael Flatley devastated by death of wife Niamh O’Brien at 52

Michael Flatley has announced the death of his wife, Niamh O’Brien, who died aged 52 following an illness.

The Riverdance star shared the news on social media on Monday, saying his “heart is broken” following the loss of his wife, whom he married in 2006.

O’Brien was a renowned Irish dancer who performed as Saoirse in Lord of the Dance. She became a prominent figure in Irish dance and performed alongside Flatley during her career.

Flatley described O’Brien as “the most loving mother, wife and person” and said their lives “will never be the same without her”. The couple had one son, Michael St James, who was born in 2007.

A representative for Flatley confirmed that O’Brien died peacefully at Beacon Hospital in Dublin after an illness, according to Irish broadcaster RTÉ.

“The Flatley and O’Brien families are devastated by Niamh’s sudden passing and have asked that their privacy be respected as they come to terms with this heartbreaking loss,” the representative said.

The family also thanked the doctors, nurses and staff at Beacon Hospital who cared for O’Brien during the final weeks of her illness.

Following Flatley’s announcement, several Irish entertainment figures and dancers shared tributes to O’Brien.

Irish actress Victoria Smurfit expressed her condolences, while the Gardiner Brothers, fellow Irish dancers, also paid tribute to her. Television and radio presenter Angela Scanlon and Boyzone and Boyzlife star Keith Duffy were among others who sent messages of support to Flatley and his family.