Ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, celebrated for her groundbreaking achievements and performances with Beyoncé, has died at the age of 29.
The news was shared on her personal Instagram page by a spokesperson, and her family described her as an “unforgettable inspiration to everyone who knew her or heard her story.” The cause of death has not been disclosed.
DePrince’s extraordinary journey from an orphan in war-torn Sierra Leone to a prominent figure in international dance was marked by her resilience and talent.
Her family noted that her death was “sudden” and highlighted how she “touched so many lives across the world, including ours.”
Tributes have been pouring in from across the ballet community. American ballerina Misty Copeland praised DePrince’s determination, despite facing significant obstacles: “Despite being told the ‘world wasn’t ready for black ballerinas’ or that ‘black ballerinas weren’t worth investing in,’ she remained determined, focused, and began making big strides.”
Born in Kenema, Sierra Leone, in 1995, DePrince was placed in an orphanage at three after losing her parents in the civil war.
She faced prejudice in the orphanage due to vitiligo, but was adopted by an American couple at four and moved to New Jersey.
Her adoptive mother noticed her passion for ballet and enrolled her in classes, setting the stage for her remarkable career.
DePrince made history as the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem and performed in Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” music video.
She joined the Boston Ballet as a second soloist in 2021 and appeared on “Dancing with the Stars” at age 17.
A dedicated humanitarian, DePrince advocated for children affected by conflict and violence. Her spokesperson noted that her artistry “touched countless hearts” and her spirit “inspired many,” leaving a lasting impact on the ballet world and beyond.
Her spokesperson concluded: “Her life was one defined by grace, purpose, and strength. Her unwavering commitment to her art, humanitarian efforts, and courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us.
She stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places.”
