Black Ballerina Michaela Deprince is no longer with us, she passed away this week. And while teh family is not speaking out about the circumstances surrounding her death, many of her fans speculate that she may have taken her own life.
Michaela was one of the most talented ballerina’s in the world. But she was plagued by a life filled with pain and struggle
Machaela was born into a Muslim family in Sierra Leone, and she lost her parents during the country’s brutal civil war. Her father was shot and killed by the rebels when she was three years old and her mother starved to death soon after.
The toddler was taken to an orphanage where she was severley abused. Frequently malnourished, mistreated, and derided as a “devil’s child” because of vitiligo, a skin condition causing depigmentation, she fled to a refugee camp after her orphanage was bombed.
In 1999, at the age of four, she and another girl, also named Mabinty, later given the name Mia, were adopted by Elaine and Charles DePrince, a couple from Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and taken to the United States.
She studied and became ballet dancer who danced with the Boston Ballet.
This week, Michaela’s adopted mother passed, leaving her without parents again. And a few days later, Michaela was found dead in her home.
DePrince rose to fame after starring in the documentary First Position in 2011, which followed her and other young ballet dancers as they prepared to compete at the Youth America Grand Prix. In 2013, DePrince danced with the Dance Theatre of Harlem as the youngest dancer in the history of the company, and, in 2013, was a soloist with the Dutch National Ballet.
Her family 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.”
“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. She stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places.”
“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.”
May she finally rest in peace.
