Misty Copeland was born in Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in San Pedro, California. Growing up, she faced financial struggles and family instability, raised by her mother, Sylvia DelaCerna, alongside five siblings. Her father, Doug Copeland, was largely absent. Despite these challenges, Misty discovered her passion for dance, inspired by her mother’s brief dance background and the encouragement of her middle school drill team coach.
At age 13, Copeland began formal ballet training at the San Pedro Ballet School under Cynthia Bradley. Despite starting later than most professional dancers, her natural grace, determination, and rapid progress quickly set her apart.
Dance Discovery and Training
Copeland’s talent was first recognized by her drill team coach, and she soon trained under Cynthia Bradley, who provided intensive ballet instruction. Her exceptional progress led to prestigious awards and scholarships, including the Los Angeles Music Center Spotlight Award at age 15 and a full scholarship to ABT’s summer program in 2000.
Her early years were not without challenges. A highly publicized custody battle between her mother and the Bradleys, who served as her mentors, tested her resilience. Yet, these experiences shaped her independence, work ethic, and unwavering dedication to ballet.
Rise to Fame at American Ballet Theatre
Misty Copeland joined ABT’s corps de ballet in 2001 and quickly became one of its standout performers.
- 2007: Promoted to soloist, performing in contemporary and classical works, earning acclaim for roles in La Bayadère, Giselle, and Sinatra Suite.
- 2012: Achieved first lead role in The Firebird, hailed as one of her most prestigious performances.
- June 30, 2015: Became ABT’s first African American female principal dancer in its 75-year history, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer in ballet.
Copeland’s artistry is celebrated for its technical precision, expressive storytelling, and ability to challenge traditional ballet norms, embracing a more inclusive vision of the art form.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Misty Danielle Copeland |
| Date of Birth | September 10, 1982 |
| Place of Birth | Kansas City, Missouri, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Ballet Dancer, Author, Philanthropist |
| Spouse | Olu Evans (married 2016) |
| Children | 1 |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5 million |
Notable Performances and Roles
Misty Copeland has performed lead roles in some of the world’s most celebrated ballets:
- Swan Lake (Odette/Odile)
- Romeo & Juliet
- The Nutcracker (Clara, Sugar Plum Fairy)
- Coppélia (Swanilda)
- The Firebird
- Twyla Tharp’s contemporary works, including In the Upper Room and Sinatra Suite
Her performances have been lauded by critics, audiences, and fellow artists, highlighting her combination of grace, athleticism, and expressive storytelling.
Books and Writings
Beyond the stage, Copeland is an accomplished author. Her books focus on inspiration, fitness, and representation in ballet:
- Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina (2014) – memoir
- Firebird (2014) – children’s book
- Ballerina Body (2017) – health and fitness guide
- Bunheads (2020) – children’s book
- Black Ballerinas: My Journey to Our Legacy (2021)
- The Wind at My Back (2022) – memoir co-written with Susan Fales-Hill
Media, Film, and Stage Appearances
Copeland’s influence extends beyond ballet:
- Featured in Prince’s music videos and tours
- Broadway debut in On the Town (2015)
- Disney film The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
- TV appearances on So You Think You Can Dance and World of Dance
- Documentary A Ballerina’s Tale (2015) showcasing her journey
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Copeland is passionate about diversity in ballet and arts education:
- Ambassador for Project Plié, promoting inclusion in ballet
- Founded The Misty Copeland Foundation to provide affordable dance education for children
- Co-founded Greatness Wins, an athletic wear line
- Created Swans for Relief, a fundraiser during the COVID-19 pandemic
Her advocacy has inspired countless dancers from underrepresented communities to pursue their dreams.
Personal Life
Misty Copeland married Olu Evans, an attorney and cousin of actor Taye Diggs, in 2016. The couple has one child, born in 2022. Copeland resides in Manhattan and enjoys cooking, mentoring young dancers, and continuing her philanthropic work.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
As of 2025, Misty Copeland’s estimated net worth is $5 million, derived from:
- ABT principal dancer salary
- Book royalties
- Brand endorsements (Under Armour, Coach, Seiko, Estée Lauder)
- Public speaking engagements
She owns a luxury apartment in New York City and actively invests in philanthropy.
Honors and Recognition
Misty Copeland’s groundbreaking career has earned her numerous accolades:
- Time 100 Most Influential People (2015)
- Dance Magazine Awards honoree (2014)
- Glamour’s Women of the Year (2015)
- NAACP Spingarn Medal (2021)
- Honorary doctorates for contributions to ballet and arts advocacy
Legacy and Future Plans
Misty Copeland is widely regarded as the Jackie Robinson of ballet, breaking racial barriers and inspiring a new generation of dancers. She plans to retire from ABT in October 2025, after 25 years, leaving a legacy of excellence, perseverance, and inclusion in the arts.
Her story is not just about ballet—it’s about resilience, representation, and the courage to defy expectations.
