Ballet Star Michaela DePrince Passes Away at 29
Michaela DePrince, a renowned ballerina known for her appearances in Beyoncé’s Lemonade and Dancing With the Stars, has tragically passed away at the age of 29. Her family confirmed her sudden death, though no further details have been released.
DePrince, born Mabinty Bangura in war-torn Sierra Leone, spent part of her early life in an orphanage before being adopted by a couple from New Jersey. Her passion for ballet began in childhood, eventually propelling her to international stardom.
Her family expressed deep sorrow in their statement, emphasizing how Michaela had touched lives worldwide with her talent, resilience, and inspirational life story.
They celebrated her as a figure of grace, purpose, and strength who overcame unimaginable challenges to achieve greatness.
DePrince’s artistry in ballet left an indelible mark, inspiring countless individuals across the globe, her legacy continuing to shine despite her untimely passing.
DePrince made history as the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem before joining the Dutch National Ballet in the Netherlands.
She later returned to the U.S. to perform with the Boston Ballet. Tributes poured in, including from the Harlem school, which praised her resilience, strength, grace, and courage.
DePrince’s personal journey was shared in her memoir Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina, inspiring others to dream big despite adversity.
U.S. ballerina Misty Copeland also paid tribute, sharing a touching video and an excerpt from her book Black Ballerinas, where DePrince was featured. Copeland described Michaela as a “one-of-a-kind dancer” whose journey was nothing short of remarkable.
Despite being told the world wasn’t ready for Black ballerinas, DePrince’s determination and talent broke barriers, leading her to make significant strides in the ballet world.
While Michaela DePrince’s life was tragically cut short, her legacy as a trailblazer in ballet and her inspiring story will continue to influence and uplift generations of dancers.
The ballet world and all who were touched by her grace and resilience mourn her profound loss, remembering her as a bright light whose impact will never be forgotten.
