Myrna Colley-Lee is a name that resonates in the world of costume design and theater arts. A highly skilled designer, her career spans decades, during which she worked on numerous theater productions and left a lasting mark on the world of arts and culture. While she is best known for her work behind the scenes, Myrna’s marriage to iconic actor Morgan Freeman catapulted her into the public eye. However, despite the fame surrounding her personal life, Myrna Colley-Lee remained a dedicated artist, leaving a legacy that transcends her association with Freeman.
This article delves into Myrna Colley-Lee’s life, from her early beginnings and education to her career highlights and personal relationships. Through exploring her contributions to the arts and her personal journey, we aim to paint a fuller picture of this remarkable woman.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s Early Life and Education
Born in 1941, Myrna Colley-Lee grew up in North Carolina, a place that nurtured her love for art and design. From an early age, she showed an interest in the visual arts, a passion that would eventually lead her into the world of theater.
Her formal education began at the University of North Carolina in Greensboro, where she earned a degree in Scenic and Costume Design. This foundation in the arts set her on a path to becoming one of the most respected costume designers in the industry. However, her thirst for knowledge and excellence did not stop there. She further honed her skills by pursuing a Master’s degree in Scenic and Costume Design from Temple University in Philadelphia. Her educational journey reflected her deep commitment to mastering her craft and becoming a force in the world of design.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s academic background in costume design not only fueled her passion for the arts but also gave her the technical skills and creative insight that would define her career.
Career in Costume Design: A Quiet Force in Theater
While Myrna Colley-Lee may not have been as widely recognized as her famous ex-husband, she has quietly built an impressive career in her own right. She spent many years working in regional theater, designing costumes for numerous productions across the country. Her ability to bring characters to life through clothing, color, and texture made her an invaluable asset to the theater community.
One of the hallmarks of her work was her dedication to accuracy and authenticity. Whether designing for historical plays or contemporary dramas, Myrna Colley-Lee approached each project with a meticulous attention to detail. Her costumes not only reflected the characters’ personalities but also mirrored the period and cultural context of the story.
Her work extended beyond traditional theater, as she often collaborated with visual artists and directors to ensure that every production was visually cohesive. Over the years, Myrna Colley-Lee developed a reputation for being one of the most skilled costume designers, with a portfolio that spanned both Broadway and regional theaters.
The Marriage of Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman
Although Myrna Colley-Lee had built a successful career in the arts, her marriage to Morgan Freeman in 1984 brought her increased public attention. At the time, Morgan Freeman was already a rising star in Hollywood, known for his powerful performances and undeniable talent. The couple met through mutual friends, and their relationship blossomed into a marriage that lasted over two decades.
For much of their marriage, Myrna Colley-Lee remained out of the spotlight, allowing Freeman’s burgeoning career to take center stage. However, she was a constant presence at his side during red carpet events, award shows, and public appearances. Colley-Lee played a key role in supporting Freeman’s career, offering her unwavering dedication and encouragement as his fame grew.
Despite the public perception of their seemingly strong union, the couple’s relationship faced significant challenges. In 2010, after 26 years of marriage, Colley-Lee and Freeman divorced. The reasons for the split were kept private, but the media speculated extensively on the couple’s struggles. Throughout it all, Myrna remained composed and refrained from speaking publicly about the reasons behind the divorce.
Although the divorce was a difficult chapter in her life, Myrna Colley-Lee maintained her grace and dignity, continuing to focus on her work and personal endeavors.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s Role as a Mother Figure
While Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman did not have any biological children together, she played a vital role in raising Freeman’s step-granddaughter, E’Dena Hines. E’Dena was the granddaughter of Morgan Freeman’s first wife and was raised by Freeman and Colley-Lee. Throughout her life, Colley-Lee was a maternal figure to Hines, offering her love and support.
E’Dena Hines’ tragic death in 2015 was a devastating blow to both Freeman and Colley-Lee. Hines was murdered in a shocking incident, which made headlines around the world. Despite the heartbreaking nature of the loss, Colley-Lee remained strong and resilient, once again choosing to maintain her privacy during such a painful time. Her strength in the face of such tragedy is a testament to her character and inner resolve.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s Net Worth and Financial Legacy
As of 2024, Myrna Colley-Lee’s net worth is estimated to be around $7 million. While a portion of her financial standing comes from her divorce settlement with Morgan Freeman, her personal accomplishments as a costume designer and philanthropist have also contributed to her wealth.
Colley-Lee’s work in costume design was never about financial gain. Instead, it was driven by a passion for the arts and a desire to contribute to the creative world. However, her exceptional talent ensured that she earned a comfortable living through her work in regional theater and art projects. Additionally, her involvement in the arts community has led to various contributions to charitable and educational causes, particularly those focused on promoting art and design among young people.
Myrna Colley-Lee continues to live a private yet comfortable life, financially secure and committed to the causes she holds dear.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s Philanthropic Work
Beyond her professional achievements, Myrna Colley-Lee is also known for her philanthropic efforts. Over the years, she has been a strong advocate for arts education, ensuring that young people have access to the resources and opportunities they need to pursue careers in the arts. Her contributions to various arts programs, particularly those focused on costume design, have helped inspire the next generation of designers.
Colley-Lee has also been involved in community initiatives, particularly those aimed at preserving African American culture and heritage through the arts. Her passion for creating positive change in the world of design reflects her belief that art has the power to educate, inspire, and bring people together.
Myrna Colley-Lee in 2024: A Life of Quiet Strength
Now in 2024, Myrna Colley-Lee is 83 years old and continues to lead a private, quiet life. Although she is no longer actively working in theater, her legacy lives on through the many productions she worked on and the lives she has touched through her philanthropic efforts.
As people continue to ask, “How old is Myrna Colley-Lee?” or wonder about her current endeavors, the answer is clear: she remains a respected figure in the world of costume design and an inspiring example of strength, resilience, and dedication. Despite facing personal challenges, including her divorce and the tragic loss of her step-granddaughter, Myrna Colley-Lee has maintained her grace and continued to live a life focused on the things she loves most—art, design, and giving back to the community.
Her contributions to the world of costume design and her commitment to arts education ensure that her legacy will be remembered for years to come.
The Enduring Legacy of Myrna Colley-Lee
In conclusion, Myrna Colley-Lee’s life is a remarkable story of artistry, resilience, and quiet strength. Her work in costume design, particularly in the theater, has earned her a place among the most respected designers of her generation. Beyond her professional achievements, her personal journey—from her marriage to Morgan Freeman to her role as a maternal figure to E’Dena Hines—shows a woman of great character and grace.
Today, at 83 years old, Myrna Colley-Lee continues to inspire through her philanthropic efforts, her legacy in the arts, and her dedication to supporting young designers. While she may live a life out of the public eye, her impact on the world of theater and her contributions to the community will not soon be forgotten.
