Tributes pour in as ballerina Michaela DePrince, who danced in Beyonce's 'Lemonade', dies at 29

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Trailblazing ballerina Michaela DePrince has died aged 29, revealed her spokesperson on Friday, September 13.

Her family members have not yet released the cause of her death.

DePrince, born Mabinty Mangura, rose to astronomical fame at the tender age of 17, when she appeared in 'Dancing With The Stars'. 

Michaela DePrince's team announces ballerina's death in a heartfelt statement

In a statement, shared on her Instagram, Michaela DePrince’s team wrote, "With pain in our hearts, we share the loss of star ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, whose artistry touched countless hearts and whose spirit inspired many, leaving an indelible mark on the world of ballet, and beyond."

They added, "A beacon of hope for many. Her life was one defined by grace, purpose, and strength. Her unwavering commitment to her art, her humanitarian efforts, and her courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us."

"Though her time with us was far too brief, her brilliance and legacy will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were touched by her story, for generations to come. Love and prayers go to her chosen family, friends, and those who loved her," concluded the statement. 

Michaela DePrince's dream of becoming a ballerina started in war-torn Sierra Leone 

Michaela DePrince was sent to an orphanage at the age of three after both her parents died in Sierra Leone's civil war, as per Daily Mail. She spent a year at the orphanage, where she was reportedly mistreated, before being adopted by a New Jersey couple. 

DePrince, best known for her role in Beyonce’s music video 'Lemonade', once recalled the moment that inspired her to be a ballerina in an interview with the Associated Press in 2012.

She shared that when she was in the orphanage, she once saw the image of a ballerina on a magazine cover, noting, "All I can remember is she looked really, really happy." The picture inspired her to become the "exact same person."

DePrince further stated, "I lost both my parents, so I was there (the orphanage) for about a year and I wasn't treated very well because I had vitiligo (a skin condition)."

"We were ranked as numbers and number 27 was the least favorite and that was my number, so I got the least amount of food, the least amount of clothes and what not," added the dancer. 

According to the obituary shared by her spokesperson, "Michaela Mabinty DePrince made history as the youngest principal dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem, before moving to the Netherlands to dance with the Dutch National Ballet. Her career progressed at Boston Ballet upon her return to the United States, where she continued captivating audiences with her performances."

The star ballerina has not only broken the shackles herself to achieve her dreams but has also inspired millions through her memoirs, 'Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina' and 'Ballet Dreams'. 

The obituary further read, "DePrince was also a dedicated humanitarian, advocating for children affected by conflict and violence. She served as an Ambassador for War Child Holland and hosted her gala, Dare to Dream, dedicated to promoting the well-being and mental health of children living in war zones."

Tributes pour in as Michaela DePrince dies at 29

The sudden death of the ballerina Michaela DePrince left everyone in shock, with fans and fellow artists taking to the comment section of the Instagram announcement to pay their tribute. 

London Ballet Classes wrote "Is this real?!! I can’t believe this. I’ll never forget reading her book and the way it touched me."

'Dance Moms' alum Nia Sioux mourned, "I always hoped to meet her. Truly such an inspiration. Her legacy will live on🤍."

Jennifer Garner expressed her disbelief, writing, "Oh no 💔😔." 

"💔 My first & forever inspiration 🤍🤍🤍 ," wrote another 'Dance Moms' alum Camryn Bridges.

'Tiny Pretty Things' star Barton Cowperthwaite expressed, "The world is a much better place because of her 🥺." "Heartbreaking. rest in peace❤️," wrote another 'Tiny Pretty Things' star Casimere Jollette. 

Youth America Grand Prix remembered her, writing, "The entire YAGP family extends our heartfelt condolences to all who loved and knew Michaela and the unique gifts and beauty she brought to the world. May her memory serve as a light and inspiration for all ❤️."

"I remember seeing you in a documentary about ballet and cheering you on from my living room. Then I remember meeting you for the first time and fan girling hard. But you were sweet and kind and a dream to work with. I’m heartbroken 💔 to read this but I’m so glad I had a chance to call you a friend," said Miami Dolphins star Maleek Washington.

'Nasty' singer Tinashe said, "Rest easy angel 🕊️❤️." "So shocking and heartbreaking 💔," shared fellow ballerina Miko Fogarty.

NFL star Torrey Smith's wife, Chanel Williams, remembered DePrince, writing, "Every opportunity to watch her dance was a gift. She was and will continue to be an inspiration for many. Heartbreaking to hear."

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