Michael Flatley diagnosed with aggressive form of cancer
The dancer has undergone surgery
Dancer and choreographer Michael Flatley, who is the creator of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance to name a few, has revealed he's been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer at the age of 64.
Michael's team announced the sad news on social media, sharing a statement on his behalf.
The statement read: '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. Thank you. 🙏🏻 Teamlord'. (sic)
Friends, fans and fellow performers around the world were quick to send their love to Michael.
One wrote: 'Prayers and thoughts with 🙏', with another writing: 'Keeping you and your family in my prayers. ❤️'. (sic)
Another wrote: '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 🙏🏻❤️ xx'. (sic)
A fourth added: 'I am genuinely heartbroken to read this. I actually feel sick .... My absolute idol. the reason why I do what I do now and that's entertain. Come on lord of the dance .... Fight this I know you can !!! My only regret is I didn't see this man on stage or ever meet him! 💔😭 Come Michael. I am sending you and your family prayers.' (sic)
Michael shot to huge fame during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, after he was invited to perform his production of Riverdance during the seven-minute interval at the contest in Ireland.
After the success of the performance, Michael went on to turn the show into a full production, going on to produce and star in shows such as Lord of the Dance, Feet of Flames, and Celtic Tiger.
To date, over 60 million people in 60 different countries have witnessed the amazing show, grossing over $1 billion.
Watch Michael perform Riverdance at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994 below:
It's unknown if Michael's recent diagnosis is linked to his skin cancer battle back in 2003, after he was diagnosed with malignant melanoma.
We are sending Michael our thoughts and wish him a speedy recovery.