When people hear the name Misty Copeland, they think of grace, strength, and history. As the first Black female principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre, she has broken barriers and inspired millions. Yet, behind her record-breaking career stands a man who has supported her every step of the way — Misty Copeland’s husband, Olu Evans. Their love story is one of quiet strength, mutual respect, and shared purpose.
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How Misty Copeland and Olu Evans Met
Misty Copeland met Olu Evans more than a decade ago, long before she became a household name. Their introduction came through a mutual family connection — Olu is the cousin of actor Taye Diggs. The two met at a party in 2004, and their connection was immediate.
At the time, Misty was still navigating the pressures of the ballet world, while Olu was establishing himself as a successful attorney in New York City. Their relationship began privately and remained that way for years. Copeland has often said that keeping their romance low-key helped them focus on what truly mattered — trust, stability, and respect.
Olu Evans, while not in the public eye like his wife, has always been a significant part of her journey. His calm demeanor and professionalism perfectly complement Misty’s demanding, high-energy career.
Who Is Olu Evans?
Olu Evans is a corporate attorney and entrepreneur based in New York City. In addition to his legal work, he’s known for his involvement in the business side of the dance industry. He previously launched a dancewear line, showing his support for the art form that defines his wife’s life and career.
Unlike many celebrity spouses, Evans has chosen to stay out of the spotlight. He doesn’t frequently appear in interviews or social media posts, preferring a life rooted in privacy and purpose. Friends describe him as grounded, intelligent, and deeply devoted to his family — traits that have helped Copeland maintain balance amid the pressures of international fame.
Their Marriage
Misty Copeland and Olu Evans married on July 31, 2016, in a stunning yet intimate ceremony held in Laguna Beach, California. The event was attended by close friends and family, with Misty wearing a custom-designed gown that reflected her elegance and poise.
The wedding was classic Copeland — graceful, private, and meaningful. Rather than turning it into a media spectacle, the couple chose to celebrate quietly, focusing on the love and commitment they shared.
Copeland has since said that her husband brings her peace and perspective. “Olu gives me balance,” she once shared in an interview. “He understands that I live a life that’s not ordinary, but he keeps me grounded in the best ways possible.”
Family Life and Parenthood
In 2022, Misty Copeland and her husband welcomed their first child, a son named Jackson. The couple kept the pregnancy private, revealing the news only months after his birth.
Motherhood marked a new chapter in Copeland’s life. She’s spoken about how becoming a parent reshaped her priorities and her understanding of self-care. She admitted that, as a dancer, she spent years pushing her body to extremes, but motherhood taught her patience, compassion, and balance.
Olu Evans has played a central role in this transition. He’s been described as a hands-on father, supportive and deeply engaged in raising their son. The couple has emphasized creating a stable and nurturing environment for Jackson, far from the noise of celebrity life.
A Strong Foundation Built on Partnership
The marriage between Misty Copeland and her husband is defined by mutual respect and a shared vision for the future. Both are ambitious professionals, but they approach success differently — and that balance is what makes them work so well together.
Evans provides Copeland with emotional steadiness amid the demanding world of performance. When she’s touring or rehearsing, he’s often the one managing family routines and offering calm reassurance. When she’s home, they prioritize quality time as a family — cooking together, traveling, and sharing quiet evenings away from the spotlight.
Their marriage is also built on equality. Copeland has often spoken about how important it is to have a partner who sees her as more than a performer. Evans supports her as an individual — not just as the public figure who shattered barriers in ballet.
Misty Copeland’s Career and Her Husband’s Support
Throughout Misty Copeland’s historic rise — from soloist to principal dancer, author, and advocate — her husband has been there behind the scenes. Evans’ influence can be seen in the way Copeland carries herself publicly: confident but humble, fierce yet grounded.
During Copeland’s milestone moment in 2015, when she became the first Black woman named principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre, Evans stood proudly by her side. While Misty’s achievement was celebrated worldwide, he ensured that home remained a place of normalcy and peace.
As Copeland transitions from performing to producing, mentoring, and expanding her foundation for young dancers, Evans continues to play an integral role in managing the business and philanthropic aspects of her career.
The Couple’s Approach to Privacy
Unlike many high-profile couples, Misty Copeland and her husband maintain a strict sense of privacy. They rarely post about each other on social media, preferring to let their relationship thrive away from public scrutiny.
This approach has helped them build a strong and lasting bond. Copeland has said that keeping her private life separate from her professional achievements gives her space to breathe — and Evans is a big part of that.
When asked about her personal life, Copeland often responds with gratitude but avoids oversharing. “I’m proud of my family, but some things are sacred,” she once said. That boundary has become part of what defines their success as a couple.
Life Beyond Ballet
As Misty Copeland concludes her farewell season at the American Ballet Theatre, she’s turning her attention toward advocacy, authorship, and family. Her husband’s steady presence continues to anchor her as she transitions into this next phase.
Together, the couple plans to focus on expanding the Misty Copeland Foundation, which provides access to dance education for underrepresented youth. Evans, with his legal and business expertise, plays a behind-the-scenes role in helping her manage these ventures.
The two also share a passion for community impact. Both believe that success should be used to uplift others — a belief that guides their personal and professional lives.
Why Their Story Inspires
The relationship between Misty Copeland and her husband resonates because it’s built on authenticity. Their story isn’t one of constant publicity or glamour, but of partnership, love, and shared purpose.
- They value privacy over fame. Their relationship thrives because it’s protected from outside noise.
- They support each other’s dreams. Both maintain successful careers while prioritizing family.
- They lead with purpose. Together, they’re creating opportunities for the next generation of artists and thinkers.
Their marriage reminds fans that behind even the most celebrated figures, there’s often someone who helps make their success possible — not through fame or headlines, but through unwavering support.
Final Thoughts
The story of Misty Copeland and her husband Olu Evans is a quiet yet powerful example of partnership. Their marriage thrives on mutual respect, shared goals, and a deep sense of understanding — a balance between grace and strength that mirrors Copeland’s art itself.
As Misty Copeland moves into a new era beyond the ballet stage, one thing is clear: her husband will continue to be her anchor, her confidant, and her greatest supporter. Together, they show that love, when built on trust and respect, can be just as timeless and inspiring as any performance under the lights.