In the glittering world of Hollywood and Broadway, few names shine as brightly in the costume design realm as Myrna Colley-Lee.
While she may not be a household name like some A-list actors, her impact on the entertainment industry is nothing short of extraordinary.
Today, we’re pulling back the curtain to reveal the fascinating life, career, and personal details of this design powerhouse.
From her humble beginnings to her rise as a costume design icon, we’ll explore Myrna’s age, family background, impressive net worth, and her connection to one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors.
Get ready to be inspired by the woman who’s dressed some of the biggest stars and shaped the visual landscape of theater and film for decades.
Myrna Colley-Lee Bio/Wiki
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Myrna Colley-Lee |
| Birthdate | June 16, 1942 |
| Current Age | 81 years old (as of 2023) |
| Profession | Costume designer and art curator |
| Activity Status | Active and influential figure in her field |
Who is Myrna Colley-Lee?
Myrna Colley-Lee is a renowned American costume designer, art director, and philanthropist.
Her creative genius has graced countless stage productions and films, earning her a well-deserved reputation as one of the most talented costume designers in the industry.
But Myrna’s talents extend far beyond the realm of fashion and theater – she’s also a passionate advocate for the arts and education.
Born in Hamlet, North Carolina, Myrna’s journey to becoming a costume design legend is a testament to her talent, determination, and unwavering passion for the arts.
Her career spans over four decades, during which she has left an indelible mark on the world of theater and film.
Age: How Old is Myrna Colley-Lee?
One of the most frequently asked questions about Myrna is her age. Born on June 16, 1942, Myrna Colley-Lee is currently 81 years old as of 2023.
Despite her age, Myrna continues to be an active and influential figure in the world of costume design and art curation.
Myrna’s long and illustrious career is a testament to her enduring passion and creativity.
Her ability to stay relevant and innovative in an ever-changing industry is truly remarkable, proving that age is just a number when it comes to artistic vision and talent.
Family: Myrna Colley-Lee’s Roots and Personal Life
Myrna Colley-Lee was born into a family that valued education and creativity.
While specific details about her parents and siblings are not widely publicized, it’s clear that her upbringing played a crucial role in shaping her future career.
One of the most notable aspects of Myrna’s personal life is her marriage to Academy Award-winning actor Morgan Freeman.
The couple tied the knot in June 1984 and were together for 23 years before separating in December 2007. Their divorce was finalized in September 2010.
Despite the end of their marriage, Myrna and Morgan’s professional collaborations have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Their partnership often saw Myrna designing costumes for productions featuring Morgan, creating a unique synergy between her visual artistry and his acting prowess.
Career Highlights: Myrna Colley-Lee’s Impressive Body of Work
Myrna Colley-Lee’s career is studded with impressive achievements and notable projects. Here are some highlights that showcase her incredible talent and influence:
Broadway Success: Myrna has designed costumes for numerous Broadway productions, including August Wilson’s acclaimed play “Fences.”
Regional Theater Contributions: She has been a resident designer for the Dallas Theater Center and has worked extensively with other regional theaters across the United States.
Film Work: Myrna’s talent has also graced the silver screen, with costume designs for films like “Hap and Leonard” and “Wedding Band.”
Art Curation: Beyond costume design, Myrna has curated art exhibitions, showcasing her broad artistic vision and knowledge.
Education and Mentorship: She has been a guest lecturer at various universities, sharing her expertise with the next generation of designers.
Net Worth: Myrna Colley-Lee’s Financial Success
Myrna Colley-Lee’s talent and hard work have not only earned her critical acclaim but also significant financial success.
As of 2023, Myrna’s estimated net worth is an impressive $160 million. This substantial wealth is a testament to her successful career in costume design, art direction, and her smart investments over the years.
It’s worth noting that a significant portion of Myrna’s net worth came from her divorce settlement with Morgan Freeman.
The couple’s high-profile split in 2010 resulted in one of the most expensive divorce settlements in Hollywood history, with Myrna reportedly receiving a settlement in the range of $100-200 million.
However, it would be a disservice to attribute Myrna’s wealth solely to her divorce settlement.
Her decades-long career in costume design, coupled with her work as an art director and philanthropist, has undoubtedly contributed significantly to her financial success.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s Impact on the Arts
Myrna’s influence extends far beyond her impressive net worth. Her contributions to the arts have been transformative:
Costume Design Innovation: Myrna’s designs are known for their historical accuracy, attention to detail, and ability to enhance character development.
Art Curation: She has curated several exhibitions, bringing important artworks to the public eye and promoting diverse artists.
Philanthropy: Myrna is actively involved in various charitable causes, particularly those supporting arts education and cultural preservation.
Mentorship: Through lectures and workshops, she has inspired and guided many aspiring designers and artists.
Cultural Preservation: Her work often incorporates elements of African American history and culture, helping to preserve and celebrate this rich heritage.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s Philanthropic Efforts
One of the most admirable aspects of Myrna Colley-Lee’s career is her commitment to giving back to the community and supporting the arts. Her philanthropic efforts include:
The Myrna Colley-Lee Scholarship: Established at her alma mater, the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina, this scholarship supports students pursuing degrees in costume design and theater arts.
Mississippi Arts Commission: Myrna has served on the board of the Mississippi Arts Commission, working to promote and support the arts throughout the state.
SonEdna Foundation: As a board member of this literary arts organization, Myrna has helped promote literature and support writers in the Mississippi Delta region.
Rock River Foundation: This foundation, which Myrna co-founded, focuses on supporting arts and education initiatives in underserved communities.
Charleston Arts and Revitalization Effort (CARE): Myrna has been actively involved in this organization, which aims to revitalize the city of Charleston, Mississippi, through arts and culture.
The Legacy of Myrna Colley-Lee
As we look at Myrna Colley-Lee’s impressive career and life achievements, it’s clear that her legacy will endure for generations to come.
Her contributions to costume design have set new standards in the industry, while her philanthropic efforts continue to open doors for aspiring artists and designers.
Myrna’s journey from a small town in North Carolina to becoming one of the most respected figures in costume design is truly inspirational.
Her story teaches us valuable lessons about perseverance, creativity, and the importance of giving back to one’s community.
Whether it’s through her stunning costume designs, her curated art exhibitions, or her charitable work, Myrna Colley-Lee has touched countless lives and enriched the cultural landscape of America.
Her $160 million net worth is impressive, but it’s her invaluable contributions to the arts that truly define her success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Myrna Colley-Lee’s educational background?
Myrna holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina. She furthered her studies at Brooklyn College and the Yale School of Drama, honing her skills in costume design and theater arts.
Has Myrna Colley-Lee won any awards for her work?
While specific award information is not widely publicized, Myrna’s work has been critically acclaimed throughout her career. Her designs have been featured in numerous prestigious exhibitions, including the Mississippi Museum of Art.
What is Myrna Colley-Lee’s design philosophy?
Myrna believes in the power of costumes to enhance storytelling and character development. She is known for her meticulous research and attention to historical accuracy, as well as her ability to blend creativity with practicality in her designs.
Is Myrna Colley-Lee still active in the industry?
Despite being in her 80s, Myrna remains active in the arts. While she may have stepped back from the day-to-day demands of costume design, she continues to be involved in art curation and philanthropic efforts related to the arts.
How did Myrna Colley-Lee’s relationship with Morgan Freeman impact her career?
While Myrna was already an established costume designer before her marriage to Morgan Freeman, their relationship undoubtedly increased her visibility in Hollywood. They often collaborated professionally, with Myrna designing costumes for productions featuring Morgan.
Conclusion
Myrna Colley-Lee’s life and career serve as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have through their passion and dedication.
From the stages of Broadway to the art galleries of Mississippi, her influence has been far-reaching and transformative.
In a world that often overlooks the behind-the-scenes creators, Myrna Colley-Lee stands as a shining example of the profound impact that costume designers and visual artists can have.
Her story reminds us to appreciate the artistry that goes into every aspect of theater and film and to recognize the power of the arts to transform lives and communities.
