Michael Flatley reveals he’s ‘on the mend’ following ‘aggressive cancer’ diagnosis

Riverdance star Michael Flatley has delighted fans with the announcement that he is “on the mend” following surgery for an “aggressive cancer”.

The 64 year old dance sensation took to social media to update fans on his recovery, offering his appreciation for all the messages of love and support he had received following his diagnosis.

“Thank you to everyone around the world for your love and prayers . I am overwhelmed by your kindness. I have been released from hospital and am on the mend,” he wrote.

 

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After initially offering their best wishes and prayers for Flatley following the news of his diagnosis, fans enjoyed a collective sigh of relief following the good news.

“Michael that’s great news. Holding you high in my thoughts. There’s a lot of love out there for you, I’m sure Many agree. Please rest well,” one fan wrote.

“The best news for today! I’m so grateful for you!”

“Sending you support and strength on your onward healing journey.”

“The best news to hear! Sending you every good wish for a speedy recovery Michael. Always in our thoughts and Prayers,” commented another.

“I read this just after my dance class and I am so happy!! Get well soon!!!!”

Flatley originally broke the devastating news that he had undergone surgery for the unspecified cancer in a post to Instagram on Wednesday, January 11.

“Dear friends, we have something personal to share, Michael Flatley has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer,” the statement on Flatley’s page read.

“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.”

This isn’t the first time Flatley has battled cancer, back in 2003 the star was diagnosed with skin cancer.

“It was purely by chance that it was noticed,” Flatley said in a 2021 interview with the Sunday Independent, adding that the melanoma was removed and had left no side effects.

Flatley become a global sensation for his impressive Irish dance shows such as Riverdance, Lord of the Dance, Feet of Flames, and Celtic Tiger Live.

Throughout the course of his entertainment career, Flatley has performed for more than 60 million people in 60 countries, with his shows grossing more than $1 billion.

In addition to his successful entertainment career, Flatley previously held the Guinness World Record for tap dancing 35 times per second in 1998.

Flatley retired from dancing in 2016 due to persistent spinal, knee, foot, and rib pain.