Strictly Come Dancing's Motsi Mabuse heartbroken over death of dancer Michaela DePrince at 29
Strictly Come Dancing's Motsi Mabuse is in mourning as she pays her respects to the late, great dancer Michaela DePrince who tragically died at 29. With a heart heavy with sorrow, Motsi posted heartfelt tributes on Instagram, sharing a monochrome image of Michaela labelled "Dancing angel" and including the poignant words "rest in power: Michaela Mabinity DePrince, 29."
Alongside this, she shared an emotional message saying, "This is incredibly sad. Rest in peace dear! Remember having a fan moment when I met you in Amsterdam. Role model to many. Gone too soon." Motsi also shared a striking video showing Michaela in a black bralet and hot pants, complete with ballet points and a flowing white cape, as she performed on a pedestrian crossing in the US.
Motsi is among the latest of stars to honour Michaela, who once graced a Beyonce music video. News of her untimely passing was posted by her team on Instagram, expressing their sorrow: "With pain in our hearts, we share the loss of star ballerina Michaela Mabinty DePrince, whose artistry touched countless hearts and whose spirit inspired many, leaving an indelible mark on the world of ballet, and beyond."
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They said: "Her life was one defined by grace, purpose, and strength. Her unwavering commitment to her art, her humanitarian efforts, and her courage in overcoming unimaginable challenges will forever inspire us. She stood as a beacon of hope for many, showing that no matter the obstacles, beauty and greatness can rise from the darkest of places."
The cause of her death is still unknown, reports the Mirror. Michaela DePrince, who graced the stage on the US hit show Dancing With the Stars at just 17, went on to feature in Beyonce's visual album 'Lemonade', captivating audiences in the 'Hope' segment. She first caught the public eye in the documentary 'First Position', which chronicled her journey alongside other aspiring dancers at the Youth America Grand Prix.
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Michaela's story is one of triumph over adversity, having escaped the violence of Sierra Leone to become an internationally acclaimed ballerina. Born Mabinty Bangura, she endured hardships in an orphanage before being adopted by an American family at age four. Raised in New Jersey, she honed her craft in ballet and became a vocal advocate for children affected by war.
Tributes have flooded in for Michaela DePrince, a renowned ballet dancer who has sadly passed away. Michaela, who had vitiligo, a chronic autoimmune disorder that causes skin to lose pigment, had become an inspiration to many with the condition.
One fan remembered watching her documentary 'First Position' repeatedly, saying: "I remember watching the documentary first position over and over again. I loved her story. I've followed her ever since. She was a beautiful dancer."
Another fan expressed their sadness, commenting: "I always hoped to meet her. Truly such an inspiration. Her legacy will live on."
The Youth America Grand Prix ballet and dance competition also paid tribute, saying: "The entire YAGP family extends our heartfelt condolences to all who loved and knew Michaela and the unique gifts and beauty she brought to the world. May her memory serve as a light and inspiration for all."
American DJ D-Nice added: "Oh no! My friend. Heartbroken. Rest well, Mabinty." Actor Barton Cowperthwaite commented: "Devastated. The world is a much better place because of her." Dancer Alex Wong simply wrote: "Omg."