Irish-American dance master Michael Flatley has been diagnosed with an "aggressive" form of cancer.
A post on Flatley's Instagram page revealed the diagnosis, adding that the dancer had undergone surgery and was 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," the post, signed by Flatley's team, read.
Flatley — who was born in the United States in 1958 of Irish heritage — rose to fame as a member of the Riverdance troupe that helped propel Irish dancing into the global spotlight.
He later opened his own Lord of the Dance show, which broke box office records around the world and produced video sales in excess of 12 million.
Suffering several injuries throughout his career, Flatley performed his final dance tour in 2016, retiring from performance.
He has since continued to work as a producer and choreographer.
ABC/Reuters
