Michael Flatley has thanked the people of Fermoy for their support following the death of his wife, Niamh O’Brien. The renowned Irish dancer said flowers left at the gates of Castlehyde House and other tributes had brought comfort to his family during a deeply difficult week.
Michael Flatley shares message of thanks
Flatley, the Chicago-born creator of Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, expressed his appreciation in a social media message after Niamh O’Brien died earlier this week.
He said he had been moved by the kindness shown by people in Fermoy, where he has maintained a long-standing connection. Flatley bought Castlehyde House, a historic property on the River Blackwater, in 1999.
A flag was flown at half-mast at Castlehyde in memory of Niamh. Flowers were also placed at the property’s gates as members of the local community paid tribute to her.
Flatley described the gestures as a source of comfort for the family and thanked everyone who had taken the time to express their sympathy.
- Niamh O’Brien died at Beacon Hospital in Dublin on Monday following an illness.
- Her removal will take place at Ryan’s Funeral Home in Ashbourne on Friday.
- The funeral Mass is scheduled for Saturday at the Church of St Thérèse, Mount Merrion.
- A private burial will follow the service.
Niamh O’Brien funeral arrangements
Niamh O’Brien will lie in repose at Ryan’s Funeral Home in Ashbourne, Co Meath, on Friday from 4pm until 7pm.
Her funeral Mass will be held at 11am on Saturday at the Church of St Thérèse in Mount Merrion, Dublin. A private burial is due to take place afterwards.
These arrangements provide an opportunity for relatives, friends and members of the dancing community to pay their respects while the family remembers O’Brien privately.
A distinguished career in Irish dance
O’Brien was an accomplished dancer in her own right and played a significant role in the development of the international Irish dance shows associated with Flatley.
She performed with the original Riverdance troupe in 1993 and later took a leading role in Lord of the Dance. Her career also included appearances in Feet of Flames and Celtic Tiger.
Her talent was recognised early. O’Brien finished fourth in the Irish Dancing World Championships at the age of 17, marking her out as one of the leading dancers of her generation.
For audiences around the world, productions such as Riverdance helped bring Irish dance to a much wider international audience. O’Brien’s contribution formed part of that important cultural story.
Family remembers Niamh O’Brien
O’Brien was 52 and was originally from Kilbride, Co Meath. She and Flatley had one son, Michael St James.
She is also survived by her parents, Monica and Tommy, her sisters Derval and Aoibheann, nieces and nephews, and a wider circle of relatives and friends connected to her school years, college life and dancing career.
The family’s loss has prompted tributes from people who knew O’Brien personally, as well as from those who admired her work on stage.
Why the Fermoy connection matters
Castlehyde House has been closely associated with Flatley since his purchase of the property more than two decades ago. His relationship with Fermoy has made the dancer a familiar figure in the Cork community.
The public response at Castlehyde reflects that connection. Flowers and messages left at the gates offered a visible expression of local sympathy after O’Brien’s death.
While the funeral service in Dublin will bring family and friends together, the tributes in Fermoy show how the couple’s life and public presence have also touched people beyond their immediate circle.
Frequently asked questions
When did Niamh O’Brien die?
Niamh O’Brien died at Beacon Hospital in Dublin on Monday following an illness.
When is the funeral Mass?
The funeral Mass will take place at 11am on Saturday at the Church of St Thérèse, Mount Merrion, Dublin.
Where can people pay their respects?
O’Brien will lie in repose at Ryan’s Funeral Home in Ashbourne, Co Meath, on Friday from 4pm to 7pm.
What was Niamh O’Brien known for?
She performed with the original Riverdance troupe and later danced in Lord of the Dance, Feet of Flames and Celtic Tiger.
Breaking News Ireland: a family’s private grief and public support
Michael Flatley’s message highlights the support offered by the Fermoy community after the death of Niamh O’Brien. Her achievements as an Irish dancer, together with the affection expressed by family, friends and local residents, have shaped the tributes following her passing.
As funeral arrangements proceed in Dublin, the focus remains on remembering O’Brien’s life, her contribution to Irish dance and the family she leaves behind.
