“That’s definitely how it seems, but it was not at all. I had agreed to do this before any of this stuff was happening and had blown up the way that it has.” These words from Misty Copeland encapsulate the whirlwind surrounding her performance at the 2026 Academy Awards, held on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Copeland, a renowned principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre who retired in fall 2025, took the stage to perform a piece that was not only a celebration of her art form but also a response to recent criticisms.
Her performance was part of a musical number for the film Sinners, which garnered an impressive 16 Oscar nominations. The song she performed, “I Lied to You,” is nominated for an Academy Award, further elevating the significance of her appearance. Dressed in a costume created by Geoffrey Holder for the 1982 production of Firebird, Copeland’s attire symbolized a journey of reclaiming and honoring the roots of her craft, as noted by choreographer Robert Garland.
Set against the backdrop of a star-studded cast that included Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq, Copeland’s performance was a fusion of Delta Blues, rock-and-roll, and hip-hop, showcasing the versatility and relevance of ballet in contemporary culture. This artistic blend was not merely for entertainment; it was a deliberate rebuttal to actor Timothée Chalamet’s recent comments dismissing ballet and opera as art forms that “no one cares” for anymore. Copeland’s response, delivered in a TikTok video, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the historical and cultural significance of these art forms.
In her TikTok, she stated, “But I think that it’s important that we acknowledge that, yes, this is an art form that’s not ‘popular’ and a part of pop culture as movies are.” Her remarks highlight the ongoing struggle for ballet and opera to find their place in a rapidly evolving artistic landscape, where popular culture often overshadows traditional forms.
Copeland further asserted, “There’s a reason that the opera and ballet have been around for over 400 years.” This statement underscores her belief in the enduring value of these art forms, which have survived and thrived despite changing societal tastes. Her performance at the Academy Awards served as a reminder of the rich history and cultural contributions of ballet, challenging the notion that it is irrelevant in today’s entertainment industry.
As the evening unfolded, the audience was captivated not only by the performance itself but also by the message it conveyed. Copeland’s artistry and eloquence in addressing the criticisms of ballet resonated with many, reinforcing the idea that all artistic mediums have their rightful place and should not be compared against one another. She emphasized, “All of these mediums have a space, and we shouldn’t be comparing them.”
Looking ahead, the impact of Copeland’s performance is expected to spark further discussions on the relevance of ballet in modern entertainment. As the film Sinners continues to receive accolades, including its 16 Oscar nominations, the dialogue surrounding traditional art forms and their place in contemporary culture is likely to evolve. Details remain unconfirmed regarding any future collaborations or performances, but Copeland’s presence at the Academy Awards has undoubtedly reignited interest in ballet and its intersection with other genres.
