Misty Copeland, Trailblazing Ballerina, Returning to Stage for Oscars Performance

The retired American Ballet Theatre principal dancer will perform a dance to 'I Lied to You' from 'Sinners' at the 2026 Academy Awards.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Misty Copeland, the first Black female principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre, is making a return to the stage to perform at the 2026 Oscars. Copeland, who retired from the ABT in 2025 after a 25-year career, will dance to 'I Lied to You' from the film 'Sinners'. She broke racial barriers in ballet and became a cultural icon, winning numerous awards throughout her illustrious career.

Why it matters

Copeland's performance at the Oscars will be a significant moment, as she continues to inspire and pave the way for greater diversity and representation in the world of ballet. Her trailblazing career and advocacy for inclusivity have made her a beloved figure, and her return to the stage will be a highly anticipated event.

The details

Copeland started her ballet training at age 13 at a local Boys & Girls Club in Los Angeles before joining the American Ballet Theatre in 2000. She went on to perform lead roles in iconic ballets such as 'Swan Lake', 'Romeo & Juliet', 'The Firebird', 'Giselle', and 'The Nutcracker'. In 2015, Copeland made history by becoming the first Black female principal dancer at the ABT, breaking racial barriers in the traditionally white-dominated field of classical ballet.

  • Copeland retired from the American Ballet Theatre in October 2025 after a 25-year career.
  • Copeland will perform at the 2026 Oscars ceremony.

The players

Misty Copeland

An iconic ballerina who became the first Black principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre in 2015. She started her dancing career at age 13 and went on to perform lead roles in numerous classical ballets before retiring in 2025.

American Ballet Theatre

A prestigious classical ballet company based in New York City, where Copeland danced as a principal dancer for 25 years.

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What they’re saying

“Last night was a moment I'll carry with me forever. After 25 years with American Ballet Theatre, I took my final bow surrounded by the company and community that have shaped my life and career. I'm deeply honored to continue my connection to ABT as a member of the Board of Trustees — supporting the next generation of dancers and storytellers who will lead this art form forward.”

— Misty Copeland (Instagram)

“I mean, I feel like he was a different boy the next day, having seen me dance for the first time and being on the stage. Literally, my husband and I were like, 'Who is this transformed?'”

— Misty Copeland (People)

What’s next

Copeland's performance at the 2026 Oscars will be a highly anticipated event, as she continues to inspire and advocate for greater diversity and representation in the world of ballet.

The takeaway

Misty Copeland's trailblazing career and her return to the stage at the Oscars serve as a powerful symbol of progress and the ongoing need for increased representation and inclusivity in the arts, particularly in traditionally white-dominated fields like classical ballet.