Misty Copeland Joins Sinners' Oscars Performance After Hip Surgery

The acclaimed ballerina made a surprise appearance during the live rendition of "I Lied To You" at the Academy Awards.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 4:06pm

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Misty Copeland, the renowned ballerina, recently broke her silence about participating in the epic Oscars performance of the song "I Lied To You" from the horror film Sinners. Despite undergoing hip replacement surgery just a few months prior, Copeland was thrilled to join the live number, which featured a cameo from the film's star Michael B. Jordan, who won the Oscar for Best Actor. Copeland's appearance on pointe was a full-circle moment, as the character she portrayed in the performance was inspired by her own storied career.

Why it matters

Copeland's participation in the Sinners Oscars performance was a significant moment, as it highlighted the power and artistry of ballet during a time when the dance form has been a subject of debate. Her return to the stage, even briefly, after a major surgery, also demonstrated her resilience and commitment to her craft.

The details

Just weeks before the Oscars, Copeland had undergone hip replacement surgery to address various injuries from her decorated ballet career, including bone spurs and cartilage loss. Despite this, she was determined to be a part of the Sinners performance, which allowed her to step back on pointe and join the celebration of the film's success, including Michael B. Jordan's Oscar win for Best Actor.

  • In December 2025, Copeland underwent hip replacement surgery.
  • On March 16, 2026, Copeland appeared on stage during the Oscars performance of "I Lied To You" from Sinners.

The players

Misty Copeland

A renowned American ballet dancer who was the first African-American woman to be promoted to principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre.

Michael B. Jordan

The star of the horror film Sinners, who won the Oscar for Best Actor for his performance.

Ryan Coogler

The director of Sinners, which was nominated for a record 16 Oscars and won several, including Best Picture.

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What they’re saying

“To be a part of something like Sinners and that incredible cinematography in that scene in particular in the film. I was like 'Yes! I'm going to somehow make this happen,' even though I'm not dancing at the moment.”

— Misty Copeland (Variety)

“I put my pointe shoes on a couple of days ago… I did three steps so it was fine.”

— Misty Copeland (Variety)

“It was such an honor to be on the stage and share the stage with such incredible talent, and I'm so proud of Michael B. Jordan, who took home best actor.”

— Misty Copeland (Variety)

What’s next

Copeland is expected to continue her recovery and gradually return to dancing, with her sights set on future ballet performances.

The takeaway

Misty Copeland's surprise appearance at the Oscars, just months after undergoing major hip surgery, underscored the resilience and artistry of ballet, even in the face of challenges. Her cameo in the Sinners performance celebrated the power of dance and the importance of representation in the arts.