Michael Flatley says ‘heart is broken’ after death of wife, Niamh O’Brien

Niamh O’Brien, a former lead performer in Lord of the Dance and the wife of Riverdance star Michael Flatley, has died at the age of 52.

Announcing her death on social media on Monday, Flatley said his “heart is broken”.

“My gorgeous bride of twenty years has gone to the Lord in Heaven.”

O’Brien was a renowned Irish dancer who performed the lead role of Saoirse in the Lord of the Dance shows.

Flatley described her as “the most loving mother, wife and person and our lives will never be the same without her”.

The couple had a son, Michael St James, who was born in 2007.

A representative for Flatley said that O’Brien died peacefully at the Beacon Hospital in Dublin after an illness.

“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,” said the representative.

“They 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.”

Tributes paid to Niamh O’Brien

Responding to Flatley’s social media post announcing the death, a number of Irish stars also paid their tributes to O’Brien.

Irish actress Victoria Smurfit said: “So incredibly sorry to hear this shocking news. All love to you and your lad. She was beauty inside and out.”

Fellow Irish dancers the Gardiner Brothers said they were “so sorry for your loss Michael. Praying for all of you”.

TV and radio presenter Angela Scanlon also commented: “I’m so, so sorry to hear this terrible news. Sending deepest condolences.”

And Boyzone and Boyzlife star Keith Duffy said: “My prayers are with you Michael and for the safe passage for Niamh’s journey to her place in heaven.”