News Item

From Special Irish Fest Flaming Feet Correspondents Ronan Collins and Sarah Walsh:

Michael Flatley Seriously Ill in Hospital

'Lord of the Dance' star Michael Flatley is in hospital suffering from a serious illness, thought to be a viral infection, his spokesperson has confirmed.

All European dates for his Celtic Tiger show have been cancelled as he continues to receive treatment at a London hospital.

A spokesperson for the star said that he has been in hospital for almost a fortnight and is expected to remain there for several days.

She also said that the 49-year-old dancer has been "inundated" with messages of support from fans, which he was "over the moon" to receive.

"Dance is his whole life. He was really looking forward to the tour. He wants to get better and get back on stage," she said.

Fr Aidan Troy, who recently married Flatley and Niamh O'Brien in Cork, said: "I spoke to him about two weeks ago and he was in hospital in London."

"I asked him at the time how he was and he said, 'Fine, I'll be out in a while'," the priest said.

Fr Troy said: "Genuinely I'm shocked. Without being unkind he's not 18. I thought initially it may be exhaustion or stress."

A statement posted of Flatley's website said: "Celtic Tiger Touring Inc has cancelled all European dates for Celtic Tiger starring Michael Flatley due to serious illness." -RTE

In support of The Lord of The Dance, I'll be wearing my shirt open and a skinny leather headband until he's feeling better.