Misty Copeland publicly rebuked Timothée Chalamet after the actor suggested last month that “no one cares” about ballet and opera. Her comments, delivered March 8, have reignited debate about the cultural value of performance arts and come just before both appear at the Oscars this weekend.

What happened

On March 8, former American Ballet Theatre principal Misty Copeland used a panel appearance for Aveeno to respond to Chalamet’s February town hall remark — made with Matthew McConaughey at a CNN and Variety event in Austin — that he didn’t want to be working in ballet or opera “where it’s like, ‘Hey, keep this thing alive, even though no one cares about this anymore.’”

Copeland called out what she described as hypocrisy, noting she had taken part in promotional posts for Chalamet’s film Marty Supreme in November 2025, including wearing a Marty Supreme jacket in a shared Instagram post and sharing an old photo of herself dancing. “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,” she told the audience.

Why Copeland’s response matters

  • Copeland, the first Black female principal at ABT, framed ballet and opera as enduring cultural institutions, reminding audiences that both have existed for centuries and provide access that can change lives.
  • Her critique highlights the interconnectedness between classical performing arts and contemporary film, arguing that movies and stars often draw on ballet and opera traditions.

Industry and public backlash

Copeland’s reaction was one of several in the arts community. Opera and ballet organizations — including the Los Angeles Opera, London’s Royal Ballet and Opera, and the Metropolitan Opera — publicly pushed back. The Met posted behind-the-scenes footage of its productions with a caption directed at Chalamet, and the Seattle Opera cheekily offered a 14% discount code “Timothee.”

Critics also noted Chalamet’s family ties to ballet: both his mother and his sister studied at the School of American Ballet, adding another layer to the controversy.

Where this goes next

As of this writing, Chalamet has not publicly responded to Copeland’s remarks and his representatives did not immediately comment. The exchange arrives days before the Oscars: Copeland is set to participate in a performance tied to the nominated song “I Lied to You” from Sinners, while Chalamet is a Best Actor nominee for Marty Supreme.

The story is likely to stay in the spotlight over awards weekend, as audiences and arts organizations weigh in and social media continues to react. Expect more statements from institutions or artists, and possibly further discussion about how mainstream entertainment platforms credit and support classical arts.

What audiences can expect

Look for continued social-media debate and possible responses from Chalamet. Arts groups may use the moment to promote programming and access initiatives, and the Oscars stage could amplify the discussion about the role of ballet and opera in contemporary culture.