On October 22, 2025, Misty Copeland took her final bow with the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) during a gala at Lincoln Center, closing the curtain on a remarkable 25-year career. At 43, Copeland returned to the stage after a five-year hiatus, performing excerpts from “Romeo and Juliet,” “Wrecka Stow” and “Sinatra Suite,” alongside partners Calvin Royal III and Herman Cornejo.

The evening was as much a celebration of Copeland’s artistry as it was of her groundbreaking influence. Tributes poured in from luminaries like Oprah Winfrey and Debbie Allen, with Oprah highlighting how Copeland “redefined who belongs on the ballet stage.” Copeland’s young son even joined her onstage for the curtain call, a touching reminder of her role as both artist and mother.

Copeland’s ascent is remarkable not

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