Misty Copeland Shares How Opera and Ballet Shaped Timothée Chalamet’s Acting Journey

Misty Copeland has publicly responded to remarks made by actor Timothée Chalamet regarding ballet and opera, drawing attention to their artistic significance.

During a panel discussion for Aveeno, Copeland highlighted the irony of being invited to promote Chalamet’s film, Marty Supreme, considering the context of her art form. “First I have to say that it’s very interesting that he invited me to be a part of promoting Marty Supreme with respect to my art form,” she remarked.

The ballet dancer referenced a November 2025 Instagram post that featured her in a Marty Supreme-branded jacket, accompanied by a childhood photo of her dancing ballet, captioned “Dream Big.” This post was shared on the film’s official account.

Copeland emphasized the lasting cultural impact of ballet and opera, stating, “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, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have enduring relevance in culture.”

In her social media message, she further noted that “there’s a reason that the opera and ballet have been around for over 400 years.” She mentioned her dedication to introducing more people to these art forms, explaining, “That’s the work that I’ve been doing my whole career… to understand the importance and the relevance of it in our communities and our culture.”

She also pointed out the interconnectedness of the arts, asserting, “I mean, he wouldn’t be an actor and have the opportunities he has as a movie star if it weren’t for opera and ballet and their relevance in that medium. So all of these mediums have a space and we shouldn’t be comparing them.”

Both Copeland and Chalamet are set to appear at the Oscars on Sunday, March 15. Copeland will participate in a performance of the Oscar-nominated song from Sinners, while Chalamet is nominated for Best Actor for his role in Marty Supreme.