Celebrities Turn Out for Misty Copeland’s Farewell Performance with ABT: Photo Gallery
The stars elegantly glided onto the blue carpet, mirroring the grace of the dancer they had gathered to honor ahead of Misty Copeland’s final performance.
A host of celebrities, including Emmy winners, and devoted fans attended the prestigious The American Ballet Theatre’s 2025 Fall Gala in New York City on Wednesday, October 22, transforming Lincoln Center into a radiant fantasy.
Among them, Copeland was a standout as she posed for pictures at the soirée celebrating her remarkable journey as the first Black woman to become a principal dancer at ABT in 2015.
With dazzling gowns and sharp tuxedos, the night sparkled with a touch of old-Hollywood glamour. Guests such as Brooks Nader and Iman illuminated the arrivals line as cameras clicked away.
Reflecting on her illustrious career leading up to this highly anticipated event, the performer shared with USA TODAY that she would tell her younger self to savor “the ride and the process and the journey, because that’s what it’s all about.”
“I’ve been rehearsing tirelessly for this night,” she expressed. “The essence lies in those moments in the studio, with my coaches and my partners, which create this experience.”
In addition to her impactful performances at ABT, Copeland collaborated with the late Prince, starred in national campaigns for Under Armour, and performed alongside Taylor Swift at the 2019 American Music Awards — a moment she described as “incredible.”
Misty Copeland’s son is following in her footsteps. The 42-year-old ballerina disclosed exclusively to Us Weekly that her 3-year-old son, Jackson, has begun taking ballet lessons, just like his gifted mother. Copeland beamed about Jackson’s dancing talent, noting he is “doing it all.” “Jackson started ballet at [age] 2,” she revealed while discussing his journey.
“I have to say, Taylor Swift was one of the most humble, down-to-earth individuals,” Copeland remarked during a March 2024 interview on Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace?. “She spent hours with me and my dance partner, Craig Hall, before the performances and was truly invested.”
In August, the dancer hinted that this wouldn’t be the last we see of her, as she plans to continue her work with her foundation and promote inclusion.
Us Weekly has captured the moments featuring stars who attended Misty Copeland’s final ABT performance:
