Michael Flatley Considers Presidential Bid
Michael Flatley, the renowned creator of Riverdance, has not ruled out the possibility of running for Ireland’s presidency. With an election expected to take place by the end of October, as it must occur within 60 days of outgoing President Michael D Higgins’s term ending on November 11, Flatley is considering his options.
Flatley, who is eligible to run as an Irish citizen, has not yet made a final decision but is consulting with a team of advisers. Speaking to RTE Radio One about media speculation regarding a potential bid, the Irish-American performer said he is frequently approached on the street and asked if he will run. However, he attributed the speculation to his recent appearance on a show hosted by Brendan O’Connor.
“I take it seriously, but no, I have not made a decision,” Flatley said. When pressed further, he emphasized that he has a significant business to manage, including a large team of dancers relying on him for their livelihood. He also mentioned his whiskey company and his family, stating, “I have a beautiful young wife and son that I want to spend time with.”
Flatley added that if he believed he could be of benefit to the Irish people, particularly as a voice for them, he might consider the role. “Right now, I don’t think they have a voice— not a true proper deep voice that you know speaks their language,” he said. He claimed to hear the concerns of “average people on the street” and noted that they are not happy. “Somebody has to speak for the Irish people.”
He expressed uncertainty about whether the role requires another politician, highlighting that he has spent three decades promoting Ireland and its culture. Although he has not been approached by any political party, he has received contact from some “people in the know.”
“It’s certainly not something that I’ve made any decision on, but it does get frustrating when you see the hardworking Irish taxpayer working as hard out and having no say in things,” he said. When asked if he was leaning towards running, he replied, “Let it be said that I stand for Ireland and the Irish people.”
To be eligible for the presidential race, a candidate must be an Irish citizen aged 35 or older. They need either the support of at least 20 members of the Oireachtas or four local authorities. Former or retiring presidents can nominate themselves. So far, two candidates have secured enough backing to enter the race.
Mairead McGuinness, who transitioned from a TV presenter and farming journalist to an MEP and EU commissioner, is the nominee for Fine Gael’s presidential candidacy. Catherine Connolly, an Independent TD for Galway West, has received support from the Social Democrats, People Before Profit, and independent TDs and Senators.
Fianna Fáil, the party with the most TDs in the Dáil, has not yet confirmed if it will run a candidate and is expected to make a decision in the early autumn. Similarly, Sinn Féin has not indicated a final decision on the race.
As the presidential election approaches, all eyes are on the candidates and their potential impact on the future of Ireland. Whether Flatley ultimately decides to run or not, his consideration of the role highlights the ongoing dialogue about leadership and representation in the country.
