Probably the most famous female Irish dancer of all time, Jean Butler was born on March 14th, 1971, in Mineola, Long Island, New York. Jean was introduced to Irish dancing at the age of 4 through her mother, Ann Josephine (born in Co. Mayo, Jean's father, Michael, is a firefighter). Jean also has an older brother, Michael, and a younger sister, Cara, who is also an Irish dancer. Having placed at the Worlds several times (as high as 3rd), after high school Jean attended the University of Birmingham where she earned an honours degree in theatre and drama. Having danced with the Chieftains, Jean was requested to perform along with Michael Flatley and Colin Dunne at the Mayo 5000 festival. Soon afterwards, Moya Doherty called on her and Michael Flatley to dance at Eurovision. Jean and Michael performed the piece "Riverdance", to a standing ovation. Thus, at the age of 23, Jean became Ireland's sweetheart overnight. Soon after, she and Michael were asked to create and star in Riverdance - The Show. Jean left the show in 1996 to pursue an acting career, having danced lead with both Michael Flatley and Colin Dunne. She has starred in a movie called "The Brylcreem Boys" along with Gabriel Byrne. In 1999, she went on to create a dance show with Colin Dunne called "Dancing On Dangerous Ground". The show was supposed to go on tour but it has been disbanded, although it is available on VHS and DVD. Jean got married recently in Dublin to Cuan Hanley.
Jean modelling.
Jean modelling some more (left) and with husband Cuan Hanley (right).
Jean competing at the 1994 Worlds.
Jean in rehearsals for "Riverdance".
Jean gracing the covers of "The World of Hibernia" (left) and "Irish Dancing Magazine" (right).
