Model and reality show star Lisa Murphy dies aged 52

01 February 2024 , 14:02

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Lisa Murphy has died, it's been confirmed

Lisa Murphy, former model and star of 'Dublin Wives', has tragically passed away aged 52 after a brave battle with cancer.

Michael Flatley's ex-fiancée spent her last years at her family's home in Ballinteer, Co Dublin. Gerald Kean, another of her ex-partners, delivered the sad news saying, "It's devastating news."

He said: "I am absolutely heartbroken and devastated at the news. She was a wonderful woman and we shared many great times together. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones."

Tributes have also poured in across social media, with one person saying: "Such sad news about #LisaMurphy. Taken way too young. RIP." A second added: "So very sad to read about the passing of Lisa Murphy. Deepest sympathies to her family, friends & all who loved her. May Lisa rest in eternal peace."

Lisa had been battling cancer before her tragic death (RTE)

A native of Ballinteer, gentle soul Lisa had high-profile relationships with dancer Michael Flatley and celebrity lawyer Gerald Kean, featuring on the reality TV show Dublin Housewives broadcast on TV3 in 2012 and 2013.

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When her relationship with Flatley ended, despite him penning a tell-all book, Lisa maintained her grace and dignity. Speaking back then, she commented: "It is between myself and him. I just don't like to divulge private things like that. It is between myself and him."

She firmly put rumours to rest of being paid to keep quiet, stating she wouldn't be residing at her parent's home if that was the case. She expressed her belief that neither happiness nor love can be bought and felt it was better to maintain her pride instead of causing hurt or exposing anyone else.

The late model previously appeared on Dublin Wives (TV3 Contact [email protected] For use in publicising Dublin Housewives only)

Lisa had previously been engaged to Michael Flatley (PA)

After more than a decade in an off/on relationship with Gerald Kean, they finally decided to end their relationship in 2016, announcing the decision formally through a statement back then. In her last few years, Lisa developed a new passion - fitness and the gym.

She experienced heartbreak when her brother Paul tragically died in a car accident in 1995. Lisa had previously discussed enjoying life's simple pleasures after the devastating loss of her brother Paul. She added: "I'm actually very laid-back and I like the simple things in life. I've always loved spending quality time with my family and friends, which costs nothing." Losing a family member puts everything in perspective and there is no word in the dictionary that described the loss of my special brother Paul."

"Now, as I said, I'm rediscovering that side of myself and my love of the simple things. I adore the outdoors and cycling, things like that."

Back in 2016, Lisa shared with the Irish Mirror that she was happily single after parting ways with boyfriend Keane and was focused on staying fit. At that time, she had revealed: "I've been getting fit and enjoying my family. I've become obsessed - I'm a gym bunny now. That's the new love of my life. Especially spinning. I never thought I would. I said to one of my girlfriends 'No, that's too hard'. But I went anyway and now I literally love it. I go four days a week."

Apart from cycling, Lisa took up boxing as well, reminiscent of another one of her old flames, heavyweight fighter Joe Egan. "I took up boxing as well which I never thought I would enjoy," she shared. "I took it up in the last couple of months. I had more time to myself so I thought 'What does every woman turn to' I suppose."

Lisa was previously engaged to Lord of the Dance star Michael Flatley, who is also currently fighting cancer. They parted ways in February 2003.

Daniel Bird