U2 still number one in entertainers’ rich list

IRISH superstars don’t tend to make a song and dance about their wealth but U2 and Michael Flatley could be forgiven if they did.

Both the band and the dancer are among the world’s richest entertainers with U2 now worth €690 million while Michael Flatley has jigged his way to a €551m fortune. Bob Geldof is also catching up fast, thanks to some clever investments on his part.

U2 generated more income than any other band in the world last year, according to Billboard magazine. Digital and album sales plus box office receipts totalled over €215m last year alone. The four band members, headed by lead singer Bono, plus manager Paul McGuinness split all income five ways.