Yahoo Lifestyle Michaela DePrince, Ballet Dancer Featured in 'DWTS' and Beyoncé's 'Lemonade,' Dead at 29
Professional ballet dancer Michaela DePrince—who was featured on Dancing with the Stars and Beyoncé's Lemonade—is dead at 29.
On Friday, Sep. 13, DePrince's official Instagram account confirmed the news of her death.
"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," the message read.
The post, which featured a black-and-white portrait of the dancer, continued, "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."
In the death announcement, DePrince was described as a "beacon of hope" who displayed that "no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places."
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The Instagram update concluded, "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."
As of writing, no cause of death has been reported.
Born in Sierra Leone, DePrince was taken to an orphanage during a civil war. She fled to a refugee camp after the orphanage was bombed and at 4, was adopted by a couple in New Jersey.
DePrince was the youngest principal dancer to perform with the Dance Theatre of Harlem. She later danced with both the Dutch National Ballet and the Boston Ballet.
The talented dancer appeared in Dancing with the Stars and on Beyoncé's music video album, Lemonade.
Additionally, DePrince published a memoir, Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina, and a children's book, Ballet Dreams. She was also featured in the documentary First Position.
DePrince was an ambassador of War Child, a nonprofit organization helping children in countries affected by war.
