In October 2025, Misty Copeland took her final bow with the American Ballet Theatre, marking the end of an era. Yet, behind the curtain of her illustrious career stands the steadfast support of her husband, Olu Evans, who has been a constant presence in her life for nearly 20 years.

While Misty has enchanted audiences worldwide with her groundbreaking achievements and impact on the ballet community, her relationship with Evans reveals the personal foundation that underpins her public persona.

Olu Evans Is a Private Attorney and Entrepreneur

Olu Evans is a practicing attorney in New York, having earned his law degree from Emory University School of Law and obtaining his license in 2007. Though he keeps a low profile regarding his legal career, Evans is also an entrepreneur. He runs Muse Dancewear, a company specializing in dance apparel for ballet professionals.

This business venture ties his professional endeavors to the arts world that Misty so passionately embraces. Evans consciously chooses to stay out of the public eye, maintaining no presence on social media, which highlights his desire for a life away from media attention.

The Couple’s Relationship Began in a New York Club

Misty and Olu’s journey began in 2004 at a nightclub in New York’s Chelsea district, where they felt an instant connection. Misty has shared in an interview with Elle that Evans was her first boyfriend and has played a pivotal role in her personal development.

She shared that he taught her new ways to communicate, to confront problems directly, and to think critically. Perhaps most significantly, during the early stages of her career, he made her feel confident that she had “a bright future as a ballerina.” Their relationship, which began with a chance meeting, blossomed over more than 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.