Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse's heartbreak after dancer's death
Strictly Come Dancing's Motsi Mabuse has fervently honoured the late dancer Michaela DePrince who died at the age of 29.
A distraught Motsi took to Instagram to express her sorrow and post heartfelt homages to the celebrated ballet dancer. In one of several emotional tributes, she posted a poignant black and white image of Michaela adorned with the words "Dancing angel" and "rest in power: Michaela Mabinity DePrince, 29," Accompanying the touching photograph, Motsi expressed her grief with the caption: "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."
In addition to her personal message, Motsi uploaded a video clip showing Michaela in a black bralet and hot pants with ballet points, donning a white cape that billowed around her as she gracefully danced across an American pedestrian crossing.
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Motsi joins a chorus of individuals honouring Michaela, who was also featured in a Beyonce music video. The ballet icon's team confirmed her untimely death on Instagram with a heartrending announcement, stating: "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."
They stated: "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", reports the Mirror.
The cause of her death is yet to be determined.
Michaela featured on the American equivalent of Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing With the Stars, at the tender age of 17. Her stint on the show led to her appearance in pop icon Beyonce's Lemonade video in the segment titled Hope.
The dancer initially gained recognition on the programme First Position.
The programme followed Michaela and other budding dancers as they geared up for the Youth America Grand Prix dance competition. Michaela shared her inspiring journey of escaping systemic violence in Sierra Leone, Africa to become a world-renowned dancer.
She was born Mabinty Mangura and spent her early years in an orphanage.
Michaela endured malnutrition and poor treatment before being adopted by an American couple when she was just four years old. The dancer then grew up in New Jersey where she honed her skills as a ballerina.
Throughout her career, Michaela championed the cause of children in war-torn areas.
Michaela, who dealt with vitiligoa chronic autoimmune condition that leads to patches of skin losing color became an influential voice for those with the disorder. Following the heartbreaking news of her passing, tributes have flooded in.
One person shared: "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 voiced their admiration: "I always hoped to meet her. Truly such an inspiration. Her legacy will live on."
An individual expressed disbelief: "Oh no. This can't be true. My daughter and I have been following her on social media since we discovered her in First Position. She was so inspiring! ! ! We loved her! Such a sad day for us all."
The ballet and dance competition organization Youth America Grand Prix also offered their tribute, stating: "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 publicly shared his sorrow with the words: "Oh no! My friend. Heartbroken. Rest well, Mabinty."
Actor Barton Cowperthwaite expressed his grief: "Devastated. The world is a much better place because of her."