Misty Copeland, one of America’s most celebrated ballerinas, is speaking out after actor Timothée Chalamet dismissed ballet and opera as art forms “no one cares about anymore.”
Copeland’s Response
During a panel hosted by Aveeno, Copeland expressed surprise at Chalamet’s comments, especially since he had previously invited her to help promote his film Marty Supreme. “It’s very interesting that he invited me to be a part of promoting Marty Supreme with respect to my art form,” she said.
Copeland emphasized that ballet and opera may not dominate pop culture like movies, but they remain deeply relevant. “There’s a reason that the opera and ballet have been around for over 400 years,” she explained. “When you have access and opportunity to be a part of something like that, it can change your life.”
Defending Ballet’s Legacy
Copeland, the first Black woman to serve as a principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre, highlighted her lifelong mission to expand access to ballet. “That’s the work I’ve been doing my whole career, to bring more people into it,” she said. “You see its importance reflected everywhere in our communities and culture.”
She added that Chalamet’s success as an actor is indirectly tied to the traditions of opera and ballet, which helped shape modern performance art. “He wouldn’t be an actor and have the opportunities he has as a movie star if it weren’t for opera and ballet and their relevance in that medium,” she concluded.
Backlash Across the Arts
Chalamet’s remarks, made during a CNN and Variety town hall, have drawn criticism from across the artistic community. Opera singers and ballet performers alike condemned his comments as dismissive of centuries-old traditions.
Looking Ahead
Both stars may cross paths at the upcoming Academy Awards. Chalamet is nominated for his role in Marty Supreme, while Copeland is scheduled to perform alongside Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq in a tribute to the Oscar-nominated song I Lied to You from Sinners. Copeland’s response underscores the enduring significance of ballet and opera, reminding audiences that popularity does not define cultural impact.
