Misty Copeland Talks Historic Achievement as ABT's First Black Principal Ballerina

By: Caryn Robbins Jul. 02, 2015

At just 32 years old, Misty Copeland has made history and helped pave the way for future dancers of color.

The accomplished ballet dancer received a historic promotion yesterday when she was named the first black principal ballerina at American Ballet Theater. Copeland, who was previously named one of Time's 100 most influential people, is the first black principal ballerina in the company's 75 year history.

E! News spoke with Misty about her day following her triumphant accomplishment as well as what her achievement means for the future of ballet.

Copeland had such a whirlwind day that she didn't even realize Mariah Carey gave her some praise on Twitter, so when she heard the news she was more than thrilled (understandably so). "I was recognized by Mariah Carey?!?!? Well that just made my day," she tells the site.

"This has all become more than I ever imagined. I wanted to open the dialogue about race in ballet and bring more people in. It's just beautiful to see the interest that has exploded for such an incredible art form that I will forever be grateful to!"

The dancer added that the first person she spilled the great news to was her boyfriend, however, "I was mad that the New York Times beat me to him."

Copeland entered a profession that wasn't exactly known of its wide diversity, but luckily, it didn't really steer her away from pursuing ballet...until she became an adult and began to have second thoughts. "I wasn't completely aware of all of that and what it meant. How deep rooted it is in this culture. So I had no apprehensions," she tells us. "But as an adult it was a scary thought. I questioned my future many times."

However, Copeland clearly stuck it out and didn't let race play a role in deciding her future, so we asked the young star how she would advise young women of color to conduct themselves when faced with similar challenges.

"All you can do is be your best self. I've always felt that I had to be that much more aware of how I present myself. I'm representing more than just me. I think every person should think that way," Copeland explains to E! News.

"Just because I'm here in this position now doesn't necessarily mean it's not still going to be hard for others. Barack Obama being President of the United States doesn't mean racism has disappeared. It's all a process and we have to be aware that the work never ends."

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