Misty Copeland Bio, Age, Height, Husband, Mother, Net Worth
Misty Copeland Biography
Who is Misty Copeland?
Misty Copeland (born September 10, 1982) is an American ballet dancer who made history as the first Black female principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) in 2015. She began ballet at age 13, a late start by classical standards. Despite this, she quickly rose to prominence, becoming a symbol of perseverance and breaking racial barriers in the ballet world.
In October 2025, Copeland retired from ABT after a remarkable 25-year career. Her final performance took place at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, marking the end of an era. The event, titled “A Celebration Honoring Misty Copeland,” featured performances from Swan Lake, Romeo and Juliet, and Sinatra Suite. Her longtime partner, Herman Cornejo, joined her on stage for the farewell.
Beyond her dancing career, Copeland has been an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the arts. She founded The Misty Copeland Foundation to provide ballet training to underserved youth. Additionally, she has authored several books, including Life in Motion, Firebird, and Ballerina Body, which inspire and empower the next generation of dancers.
Copeland’s legacy continues to influence the ballet community, demonstrating that talent and determination can overcome any obstacle.
Misty Copeland Age
How old is Misty Copeland?
Misty Copeland, born on September 10, 1982, is 43 years old as of 2025. She began ballet at 13 and became the first Black female principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre (ABT). Her age highlights her remarkable journey and enduring legacy in the ballet world.
Misty Copeland Height
How tall is Misty Copeland?
Misty Copeland stands at 5 feet 2 inches (1.57 meters) tall. Despite her shorter stature, she became the first Black female principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre (ABT). Her height never limited her performances, showcasing her strength, grace, and inspiring presence on ballet stages worldwide.
Misty Copeland’s Husband
Is Misty Copeland married?
Misty Copeland is married to Olu Evans, an attorney and the cousin of actor Taye Diggs. They met in 2004 at a club in Chelsea, New York, and began dating shortly thereafter. After over a decade together, they married on July 31, 2016, in a private ceremony in California. In April 2022, the couple welcomed their first child, a son named Jackson. Evans has been a supportive partner throughout Copeland’s illustrious ballet career, often accompanying her to events and performances. Despite their public profiles, the couple maintains a relatively private personal life, choosing to keep their family matters out of the spotlight.
Misty Copeland’s Notable Movies and Appearances
Misty Copeland has graced both the big screen and television with her remarkable talent. Here are some of her notable film and TV appearances:
- A Ballerina’s Tale (2015)
A documentary chronicling Copeland’s journey to becoming the first Black principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre. - The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
Copeland portrayed the Ballerina Princess in this Disney fantasy film, bringing ballet to the silver screen. - Lift (2022)
An action-comedy film where Copeland showcased her executive production skills. - Match in a Haystack (2025)
An upcoming project where Copeland serves as an executive producer.
These works highlight Copeland’s versatility and her contributions to both the arts and entertainment industries.
Misty Copeland Mother | Parents
Misty Copeland was born in 1982 to Sylvia DelaCerna and Doug Copeland. Her father was absent from her life by age two. Raised in San Pedro, California, Sylvia faced financial hardships, often moving with her six children. Despite challenges, she supported Misty’s ballet aspirations. At 13, Misty began formal ballet training. Sylvia’s sacrifices included allowing Misty to live with her dance teacher, Cynthia Bradley, to pursue her passion. This decision led to a legal custody battle, highlighting Sylvia’s commitment to Misty’s future. Their complex relationship underscored Sylvia’s dedication to her daughter’s dreams.
Misty Copeland’s Son
Misty Copeland and her husband, Olu Evans, welcomed their first child, a son named Jackson, in April 2022. They kept the news private initially, revealing it in July 2022. Jackson made a public appearance during Copeland’s final performance at the American Ballet Theatre in October 2025. At just three years old, he joined his mother on stage, wearing a tuxedo and stealing the spotlight during curtain calls. Copeland has expressed that motherhood has profoundly changed her perspective, teaching her to embrace her body’s transformations. Despite her fame, she remains committed to keeping Jackson’s life private, focusing on his well-being and development.
Misty Copeland’s Siblings
Misty Copeland is the youngest of six siblings. She has three older siblings: Erica Stephanie Copeland, Douglas Copeland Jr., and Christopher Ryan Copeland. Additionally, she has two younger half-siblings: Lindsey Monique Brown and Cameron Koa DelaCerna, from her mother’s subsequent marriages.
Raised by her mother, Sylvia DelaCerna, in San Pedro, California, Misty and her siblings faced financial challenges. At times, they lived in two small rooms at the Sunset Inn in Gardena, California.
Despite these hardships, Misty’s family played a significant role in her journey. Her older sister, Erica, was a dance team captain and a major influence in Misty’s early life. Misty followed in Erica’s footsteps by becoming captain of San Pedro’s Dana Middle School drill team.
Misty’s siblings have shared insights into her childhood, discussing her early passion for dance and the family’s support during her formative years. Today, Misty continues to honor her family’s legacy, using her platform to inspire and uplift others.
Misty Copeland’s Final Performance: A Historic Farewell to the Stage
On October 22, 2025, Misty Copeland gave her final performance at the David H. Koch Theater in New York City. This event marked her retirement from the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) after a groundbreaking 25-year career. The gala, titled “A Celebration Honoring Misty Copeland,” featured her most iconic roles, including Romeo and Juliet, Sinatra Suite, and Wrecka Stow, showcasing her versatility and artistry. She shared the stage with Herman Cornejo and Calvin Royal III, while Oprah Winfrey and Caroline Kennedy co-chaired the event. Copeland’s farewell celebrated her historic achievements and inspired future generations of dancers worldwide.
Misty Copeland’s Ethnicity
What ethnicity is Misty Copeland?
Misty Copeland is of African American, German American, and Italian American descent. Her father is of German and African American ancestry, while her mother is of Italian and African American heritage and was adopted by African American parents. Despite her mixed heritage, Copeland identifies as Black, stating, “I am viewed as a Black woman” and “that’s how I identify.”
Raised in a predominantly Black community in San Pedro, California, Copeland’s identity was shaped by her environment and experiences. She has discussed the challenges of being a Black ballerina in a predominantly white field and advocates for diversity and inclusion. Her journey underscores the importance of representation and embracing one’s heritage.
Misty Copeland and the American Ballet Theatre: A Legacy of Excellence
Misty Copeland made history in 2015 as the first African American woman promoted to principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre (ABT). Her rise to this prestigious position marked a significant milestone in the company’s 75-year history. Over her 25-year tenure, Copeland performed iconic roles such as Odette/Odile in Swan Lake, Juliet in Romeo and Juliet, and Clara in The Nutcracker. Her performances were celebrated for their technical brilliance and emotional depth. Copeland’s legacy at ABT extends beyond her performances; she has been a trailblazer for diversity and inclusion in classical ballet. In 2025, she retired from ABT, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire dancers worldwide.
Misty Copeland Retired: Highlights from Her Final Performance
On October 22, 2025, Misty Copeland retired after a historic 25-year career with the American Ballet Theatre (ABT). At the age of 43, she then performed her final show at the David H. Koch Theater in New York City, thereby marking a milestone in ballet history. During her farewell performance, which was part of ABT’s Fall Gala, she featured excerpts from Swan Lake, Romeo and Juliet, and Twyla Tharp’s Sinatra Suite. Moreover, Copeland shared the stage with Herman Cornejo and other principal dancers. Ultimately, her retirement celebrates her groundbreaking legacy as ABT’s first Black female principal dancer and continues to inspire future generations of performers.
Misty Copeland Net Worth
As of 2025, Misty Copeland has an estimated net worth of around $1.5 million. Her income comes from her historic career at American Ballet Theatre, brand endorsements, book sales, public speaking, and entrepreneurial ventures. Copeland’s earnings reflect her influence and groundbreaking impact in ballet and beyond.
