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Legendary dancer Michael Flatley is reportedly preparing to swap the spotlight for statesmanship, as the Riverdance star gears up to run for President of Ireland.
The news came to light during a High Court case concerning works at Flatley's Castlehyde mansion in County Cork, where his legal representative revealed the surprise development.
In a statement to the court, Flatley’s barrister, Ronnie Hudson, cited a “material change in circumstances” and confirmed that the 65-year-old choreographer would be returning to Ireland “within the next 14 days” with plans to seek a nomination for the 2025 Irish presidential election, expected this autumn.
An affidavit filed by solicitor Maxwell Mooney on behalf of Flatley officially declared his intention to pursue a presidential run, stating the Irish-American entertainer is “to seek nominations to run for president of Ireland.”
Though Flatley had strongly hinted at political ambitions during a recent Irish radio interview, this is the first formal indication that he is actively pursuing a campaign.
“I don’t believe the Irish people have a voice, not a true, proper, deep voice that speaks their language,” Flatley said in the interview.
“Somebody has to speak for the Irish people. I hear from the average person on the street, and they’re not happy right now.”
Michael Flatley performing at Madison Square Garden in New York in 2005- Credit: AP
Flatley, who rose to global fame in the 1990s with his groundbreaking performances in Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, has long been regarded as a proud cultural ambassador for Ireland. Born in Chicago to Irish parents, he holds Irish citizenship and is constitutionally eligible to run for the presidency.
His campaign would represent a rare move from the world of entertainment into high political office, a path trodden by few in Irish history. As a household name and cultural icon, Flatley could present a formidable populist challenge, especially given his wide name recognition and deep connection to Irish heritage.
According to Irish constitutional law, a presidential candidate must be nominated either by 20 members of the Oireachtas (parliament), four local authorities, or self-nomination if they are a former or current president.
Though he has no political experience, Flatley has never been shy about voicing his views, often speaking passionately about Irish identity, tradition, and the role of ordinary people in national life.
His estate, Castlehyde, has been undergoing major restoration, which formed the basis of the current legal proceedings. However, it now appears the famed dancer’s next stage could be Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the Irish President.
While public reaction is still unfolding, Flatley’s entry into the political arena is expected to stir debate in the coming weeks.
If successful in gaining nomination, he will join a potentially crowded field of candidates aiming to succeed President Michael D. Higgins, whose second and final term comes to an end this year.
