Former Lord of the Dance lead performer Niamh O’Brien has died at 52. Her husband, Riverdance star Michael Flatley, shared the heartbreaking news on October 5. The couple shared a son, Michael St James, who was born in 2007.
Michael Flatley shares emotional tribute after Niamh O’Brien’s death
Announcing her death on Instagram, he expressed his grief in a statement. He wrote, “My heart is broken. I have lost my beautiful wife, Niamh, and my best friend. 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.”
He continued, “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.” Flatley, who has been through his own battle with cancer, also shared several photos of O’Brien alongside his emotional tribute. The couple, who met on the set of Riverdance, got married at St. Patrick’s Church in Fermoy, County Cork, on October 14, 2006.
Fans and friends quickly filled the comments with messages of condolences and support for the family. Ballykissangel star Victoria Smurfit commented, “No! Michael, I’m so incredibly sorry to hear this shocking news. All love to you and your lad. She was a beauty inside and out.” TV and radio presenter Angela Scanlon wrote, “I’m so, so sorry to hear this terrible news. Sending deepest condolences.”
The BBC reported that O’Brien died peacefully at Beacon Hospital in Dublin following an illness. The former dancer, who finished fourth at the world championships at 17, had a longstanding lung condition. O’Brien was best known for playing Saoirse in Lord of the Dance. Her stage credits also included Riverdance, Feet of Flames, and Celtic Tiger.
