A dancer who starred in a huge Beyonce music video has died at the age of 29.
The ballerina was best known for her role in Beyonce’s Lemonade music video. She shot to stardom aged 17 when she appeared on Dancing with the Stars.
Her team announced her tragic passing on Friday (September 13) – no cause of death has been revealed yet. They took to Instagram and paid tribute to the star in a touching statement.
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It read: “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: “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.”
The dancer’s first break was on the programme First Position. It followed Michaela and other young dancers preparing for the Youth America Grand Prix dance competition.
(Image: No credit)
She won legions of fans by telling her inspiring story of how she escaped violence in Sierra Leone, Africa to become a world-renowned ballerina. She was born in Mabinty Mangura and grew up in an orphanage.
Michaela was malnourished and mistreated in the orphanage before she was adopted by an American couple at the age of four. The dancer grew up in New Jersey where she trained as a ballerina.
She was a fierce advocate for children in war zones during her career. From 2016 she was a goodwill ambassador with the Dutch organisation War Child.
Michaela had vitiligo, a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes patches of skin to lose color or pigment. Michaela bravely opened up about the condition and became a voice for others with it.
Tributes have poured in for Michaela following the sad news. Ballet and dance competition Youth America Grand Prix wrote: “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.”
American DJ, D-Nice commented: “Oh no! My friend. Heartbroken. Rest well, Mabinty.” Actor Barton Cowperthwaite penned: “Devastated. The world is a much better place because of her.” Dancer Alex Wong simply wrote: “Omg.”
Another person said: “I remember watching the documentary first position over and over again. I loved her story. I’ve followed her ever since. She was a beautiful dancer.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
