Celebrated Ballerina Michaela DePrince Passes Away at 29

Sierra Leonean ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, known for her roles in TV and music videos, died at 29. DePrince was an orphan from Sierra Leone who overcame numerous challenges, including vitiligo, to become a renowned ballerina. She was remembered by peers for her inspirational journey.

Sierra Leonean ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, renowned for her appearances in 'Dancing with the Stars' and Beyonce's 'Lemonade,' tragically passed away at the age of 29, according to a statement from her family. The news was first revealed on her personal Instagram page and later confirmed on Facebook.

No official cause of death has been reported. 'It is with profound sadness we announce the sudden passing of our beautiful sister, Michaela Mabinty DePrince. Michaela touched so many lives across the world, including ours. She was an unforgettable inspiration to everyone who knew her or heard her story,' the family stated.

The ballet community, including American ballerina Misty Copeland, expressed their sorrow. Copeland shared a video of DePrince dancing and excerpted her book 'Black Ballerinas,' praising DePrince's resilience in a field often dismissive of Black ballet dancers.

Born Mabinty Bangura in Kenema, Sierra Leone, DePrince recounted her difficult early years in her 2014 book, 'Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina.' Adopted by a New Jersey family at age four, she was encouraged in her ballet dreams, culminating in a scholarship to the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School. She gained prominence after the 2011 documentary 'First Position' and joined the prestigious Boston Ballet, inspiring many through her story and performances.

(With inputs from agencies.)