As Misty Copeland bid a heartfelt farewell to the American Ballet Theatre stage in October 2025, attention naturally shifted to those who’ve supported her journey, particularly her long-time partner, Olu Evans, who has been a steadfast presence in her life for close to 20 years.

While Misty’s unprecedented career and groundbreaking impact on ballet have mesmerized audiences worldwide, her relationship with Evans provides a window into the personal realm that anchors her public persona.

Olu Evans Is a Private Attorney and Entrepreneur

Olu Evans, a practicing attorney in New York, graduated from Emory University School of Law and has been practicing since 2007. Though he keeps the specifics of his legal work under wraps, his professional interests are diverse. He owns Muse Dancewear, a company that supplies dancers with high-quality ballet attire.

This business venture seamlessly ties Evans’s career to the dance world that Misty has so prominently redefined. Preferring to maintain a low profile, Evans stays away from social media, highlighting his desire for privacy away from the public eye.

The Couple’s Relationship Began in a New York Club

The couple’s story began in 2004 when they met at a nightclub in New York’s Chelsea area, sparking an instant connection. In an interview with Elle, Copeland shared that Evans was her first boyfriend and credited him with significantly influencing her personal development.

She expressed that he taught her effective communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Importantly, during her early career, he instilled in her the confidence that she had “a bright future as a ballerina.” Their relationship, which started with a chance encounter, flourished for over a decade before they became engaged in August 2015.

After a decade together, the couple tied the knot on July 31, 2016, in a ceremony in Laguna Beach, California. True to their nature, they opted for a private wedding. Misty described herself as a “simple girl” who wanted the day to be enjoyable and free from dramatic preparations.

Their family expanded in April 2022 with the birth of their son, Jackson. Copeland has often praised Evans as an incredible and supportive partner and father, noting that his presence has been essential in helping her balance the demands of motherhood and her professional career. The family resides together in an apartment on New York’s Upper West Side.

He Provides Unwavering Support Behind the Scenes

While Evans stays out of the public eye, he remains a steadfast supporter of Copeland’s trailblazing career. He has been described as her strong supporter and a grounding presence, especially during stressful periods.

This support was evident as Copeland prepared for her final performances with the American Ballet Theatre; she has acknowledged that balancing her career with family life would not be possible without his incredible partnership and shared role in parenting. His presence represents a stable and constant force, allowing her to navigate the pressures of fame and a demanding physical profession.

He Is a Cousin of the Actor Taye Diggs

A fun fact about Olu Evans is his notable family connection: he is a cousin of actor Taye Diggs. The family tie was publicly highlighted when Diggs posted photos with the couple on his social media, celebrating their engagement and achievements with captions like “Black excellence.”

This connection also played a role in how Evans and Copeland met, as he was out with his famous cousin at the Chelsea nightclub where he first spotted the future ballet star on the dance floor.