Is Michael Flatley OK? Fans pray for ‘Riverdance’ star after he's diagnosed with 'aggressive' form of cancer
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS: Michael Flatley, the star of the hit show ‘Riverdance’, has been diagnosed with an “aggressive” form of cancer. On Wednesday, January 11, a post on the Irish-American dancer and director’s Instagram profile reads, “Dear friends, we have something personal to share, Michael Flatley has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. He has undergone surgery and is in the care of an excellent team of doctors. No further comments will be made at this time. We ask only for your prayers and well wishes.”
According to CNN, the Chicago native rose to stardom following a seven-minute performance at the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest. He also popularized a new style ‘Riverdance,’ a theatrical show that combined traditional Irish dancing with modern choreography. It was expanded into a whole production and premiered in 1995 at Dublin's Point Theatre. He later produced theatre productions like ‘Celtic Tiger’, ‘Lord of the Dance,’ and’ Feet of Flames.’ At the Wembley Arena, 'Lord of the Dance' created a new record by performing 21 consecutive shows. His dance group also attended the inauguration of former US President Donald Trump in 2017.
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Earlier, in order to raise funds for humanitarian assistance in Ukraine following Russia's invasion, ‘Lord of the Dance’ performed a 25th-anniversary tour in 2022. Flatley, who retired from dancing in 2016 due to an injury, revealed to Irish Independent in 2021 that he had previously been diagnosed with malignant skin cancer in 2003 after an MTV fan observed a brown spot on his face during an interview and informed his personal assistant. “It was purely by chance that it was noticed. I had never even noticed it. So many people who surround me have had cancer and so many people I know have died from it. I have diagnosed with skin cancer myself and it was a very scary time. I sympathize with anybody who is lying on that bed and facing the uncertainty of the future. It can be a frightening place.”
Now after the news of Flatley’s diagnosis got out, several fans came out and offered their prayers for the star’s quick recovery. One person wrote in the comment section of Michael Flatley’s Instagram post, “Dearest Michael, I am devastated to read this news, you have been my hero for many years. I wish you a full and speedy recovery and send my love to you and your family.” “You are an amazing man and have given the world so much with your talent. I will pray for you,” another added.
“Michael brought magic to so many of us. I am so sorry he has to deal with this, but I am confident he will!!! As a cancer survivor, I encourage Michael to stay positive and keep a sense of humor. I’m sure Michael knows more about perseverance and strength of mind and body than most of us. So many of us will be praying and keeping Michael in our thoughts. Sending gratitude for all that Michael has given us and sending positivity for his challenge ahead,” yet another user remarked.