Ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, renowned for her performances with Beyoncé and celebrated as a pioneering figure in ballet, has passed away at 29.
Her death was announced by a spokesperson on her personal Instagram account, with her family describing her as an “unforgettable inspiration” to all who knew her or were touched by her story.
The cause of her death has not been disclosed.
DePrince’s journey from a war-torn orphanage in Sierra Leone to achieving global acclaim in the dance world was nothing short of extraordinary.
Her family shared that her passing was “sudden,” noting the profound impact she had on countless lives, including theirs.
The ballet community has been abuzz with tributes.
American ballerina Misty Copeland praised DePrince’s resilience, acknowledging the barriers she overcame in a field that was reluctant to invest in Black ballerinas.
Born in Kenema, Sierra Leone, in 1995, DePrince was orphaned at three due to the civil war and faced stigma in the orphanage due to her vitiligo.
Adopted by an American family at four, she moved to New Jersey, where her adoptive mother recognized her passion for ballet and enrolled her in classes.
DePrince gained prominence as the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem and performed globally, including in Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” video.
She joined the Boston Ballet as a second soloist in 2021 and appeared on “Dancing with the Stars” at 17.
In addition to her dancing career, DePrince was a dedicated humanitarian, advocating for children affected by conflict.
Her spokesperson reflected on her legacy, highlighting her artistry, grace, and strength, and stating that she inspired many with her commitment to dance, humanitarian work, and her triumph over adversity.
Her life was a testament to rising above challenges and finding beauty and greatness amidst darkness.
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