‘Somebody has to speak for the Irish people' says Michael Flatley as he ‘seriously' considers running for president
will be stepping down as President of Ireland on November 11, 2025, after a 14-year term.
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Michael Flatley hasn't 'made a decision' on whether he's running for presidency yet
Credit: Gary Ashe - Commissioned by The Sun Dublin
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Michael D Higgins is saying goodbye to Áras an Uachtaráin this November
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Michael Flatley spoke about what he 'stands for'
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The beloved figure was originally inaugurated as president in 2011, and then re-elected in 2018.
This means that the next
As the country gets ready to bid President Higgins a fond farewell, all sights have turned to who will take his place.
And it looks like the creator of the world-famous Riverdance and Lord of the Dance shows,
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The 67-year-old has revealed that everywhere he goes, "people stop and ask" him about his intentions to become head of state, which he said he takes "seriously".
Speaking to Brendan O'Connor on RTE Radio One on Saturday, Flatley said: "I've not made the decision, but I have a team of advisers that are advising me on this. I have a huge business to run.
"I have an army of dancers counting on me to make a living. I have a whiskey company, a beautiful young wife and son that I want to spend time with."
Flatley said he believes Irish people don't have "a true proper deep voice that speaks their language" to represent them right now and that if he thought he could be that voice, he would consider putting himself forward for the presidency.
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The dad-of-one added: "I meet the average person on the street from five to 95.
"I meet them all and I hear their concerns. And I'd be lying if I said they're happy right now, and somebody has to speak for the Irish people.
Michael Flatley and Matt Molloy perform on Late Late Show
"I'm not sure we need another politician... if I'm honest. It's a statesman's role, but I spent the last 30 years of my life touring the world promoting Ireland and Irish culture."
Flatley spoke about his credentials and experience that could give him an upper hand in the race.
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He said: "I've met them all. I've met the Bushes, the Obamas,
'FRUSTRATING'
"I've met all those people on a more cultural front, more to promote the country. And I think maybe that's what the job of president is all about."
Flatley has yet to be approached by any political party but has been sought out by "some very weighted individuals people in the know".
The celebrity choreographer finished off the conversation saying: "It's certainly not something that I've made any decision on.
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"But it does get frustrating when you see the hard-working Irish taxpayer working as hard out and having no say in things.
"Let it be said that I stand for Ireland and the Irish people, Sin é."
Flatley was among the guests invited to the
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The next presidential election is due to take place sometime before November 2025
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