Who Is Myrna Colley-Lee? Her Life, Career & Marriage to Freeman
Myrna Colley-Lee is a renowned American costume designer, set designer, and art director, with work in theater, television, and film. She was born in 1941 in Hamlet, North Carolina.
She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro with a fine arts degree and later from Temple University with a master’s degree in costume design. One of the Black Theatre Movement’s most prominent figures, she worked on plays such as The Piano Lesson and Wedding Band.
She was married to actor Morgan Freeman from 1984 until their divorce in 2010. Aside from her acting career, Colley-Lee is also a philanthropist, engaged in arts and cultural projects.
Myrna Colley-Lee Bio/Wiki
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Myrna Colley-Lee |
| Date of Birth | 1941 |
| Age | 84 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Hamlet, North Carolina, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | BFA – University of North Carolina at Greensboro |
| MFA – Temple University (Costume & Stage Design) | |
| Profession | Costume Designer, Set Designer, Art Director |
| Notable Works | The Piano Lesson, Wedding Band, Forest City |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Formerly married to Morgan Freeman, 1984–2010) |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Net Worth | Estimated $160 million |
| Philanthropy | Supports arts & cultural organizations |
Who Is Myrna Colley-Lee?
Myrna Colley-Lee is a highly respected American costume designer, set designer, and art director, known for her influential work in theater, television, and film.
Born in 1941 in Hamlet, North Carolina, she pursued her passion for the arts, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and a Master’s in Costume and Stage Design from Temple University.
A key figure in the Black Theatre Movement, Colley-Lee contributed to notable productions such as The Piano Lesson, Forest City, and Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White.
Beyond her creative career, Colley-Lee is also known for her personal life, particularly her marriage to actor Morgan Freeman, which lasted from 1984 until their divorce in 2010.
She has remained dedicated to philanthropy, actively supporting arts and cultural organizations like the National Museum of Women in the Arts and the Rock River Foundation.
With a career spanning decades, Colley-Lee has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and continues to inspire future generations in design and the performing arts.
Myrna Colley-Lee Early Life
Myrna Colley-Lee was born in 1941 in Hamlet, North Carolina, where she spent her early years immersed in a creative and culturally rich environment. While details about her parents and siblings remain private, her passion for the arts was evident from a young age.
She pursued her education at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, then known as Women’s College, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree.
Her love for costume and stage design led her to further her studies at Temple University in Philadelphia, where she obtained a master’s degree in costume and stage design.
Growing up during a time of social and artistic change, Colley-Lee developed a deep appreciation for storytelling through visual design. Her academic background provided her with the technical skills and artistic sensibility to make a significant impact in theater and film.
Her early exposure to diverse artistic influences shaped her career path, eventually positioning her as a leading figure in the Black Theatre Movement, where she would later create stunning costumes and set designs for groundbreaking productions.
Myrna Colley-Lee Family
Myrna Colley-Lee has kept much of her family life private, with little publicly known about her parents or possible siblings. Born in 1941 in Hamlet, North Carolina, she grew up in an era that saw significant cultural and social change, which likely influenced her artistic journey.
While there are limited details about her upbringing, it is evident that she pursued her passion for the arts early on, leading to a successful career in costume and set design.
In her personal life, Colley-Lee was married to legendary actor Morgan Freeman. The couple tied the knot on June 16, 1984, and were together for over two decades before their separation in 2007 and eventual divorce in 2010.
During their marriage, they raised Freeman’s step-granddaughter, E’dena Hines, whom they adopted and considered their own. Although the couple ultimately parted ways, Colley-Lee maintained a low profile post-divorce, focusing on her work and philanthropic efforts in the arts community.
Myrna Colley-Lee Education
Myrna Colley-Lee pursued her passion for the arts by earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, which was previously known as the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina.
Her time there allowed her to develop a strong foundation in visual arts, which would later shape her career in costume and set design. Recognizing her talent and ambition, she sought further education to refine her skills and gain deeper knowledge in theatrical design.
To advance her expertise, Colley-Lee attended Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she earned a Master’s degree in Costume and Stage Design. This advanced education provided her with the technical skills and artistic vision needed to excel in the entertainment industry.
Her studies prepared her for a distinguished career in theater, television, and film, allowing her to create stunning designs that have been widely recognized in the Black Theatre Movement and beyond.
Myrna Colley-Lee Career
Myrna Colley-Lee built an impressive career as a costume designer, set designer, and art director, making significant contributions to theater, television, and film.
She became a key figure in the Black Theatre Movement, working on acclaimed productions such as The Piano Lesson, Forest City, and Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White.
Her designs were celebrated for their authenticity, cultural depth, and ability to bring characters to life on stage. In addition to her work in theater, she also contributed to television projects, including the 1985 production Frederick Douglass: An American Life.
Beyond her creative work, Colley-Lee has been deeply involved in philanthropy and arts advocacy. She has supported organizations such as the National Museum of Women in the Arts, the Rock River Foundation, and the Charleston Arts Revitalization Effort.
Her dedication to preserving and promoting African American art and culture has solidified her legacy as not only a talented designer but also a champion of the arts.
Myrna Colley-Lee Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | Approx. 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | Around 60 kg (132 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Black (with gray strands) |
| Body Type | Slim and graceful |
| Skin Tone | Medium Brown |
Myrna Colley-Lee Husband/Boyfriend and Relationship status
Myrna Colley-Lee was previously married to renowned actor Morgan Freeman. The couple tied the knot on June 16, 1984, and were together for over two decades before separating in December 2007.
Their divorce was finalized in 2010, marking the end of their long-term marriage. During their time together, they raised Freeman’s step-granddaughter, E’dena Hines, whom they adopted and considered their own.
Despite their separation, Colley-Lee maintained a private and dignified approach, staying out of the public eye while continuing her work in the arts and philanthropy.
There have been no public reports of her dating or remarrying, as she appears to focus on her career, philanthropy, and personal endeavors. Unlike her high-profile marriage, she has chosen a low-profile lifestyle, dedicating her time to the arts and supporting various cultural initiatives.
Myrna Colley-Lee Net Worth
Myrna Colley-Lee has an estimated net worth of around $160 million, largely influenced by her successful career as a costume designer, set designer, and art director.
In addition to her contributions to the entertainment industry, she has also been involved in philanthropy and arts advocacy, supporting various cultural and artistic organizations.
A significant portion of Colley-Lee’s wealth is believed to have come from her divorce settlement with Morgan Freeman. When the couple finalized their divorce in 2010, reports suggested she received a substantial financial settlement, which added to her already impressive fortune.
Despite her wealth, Colley-Lee has maintained a relatively private and low-profile lifestyle, focusing on her passion for the arts and charitable efforts rather than public appearances or media attention.
Myrna Colley-Lee Plan and Goals
Myrna Colley-Lee has dedicated much of her life to the arts, culture, and philanthropy, and her future plans and goals likely align with her passion for supporting artistic expression. She has been an advocate for African American art and theater, using her platform to preserve and promote cultural heritage.
Through her involvement in organizations like the National Museum of Women in the Arts and the Rock River Foundation, she aims to continue uplifting underrepresented artists and contributing to the creative industry.
While she has stepped away from the spotlight, Colley-Lee remains focused on mentorship, philanthropy, and artistic preservation. She is likely to continue her support for arts education, ensuring future generations have access to resources and opportunities in theater and design.
Her legacy is built not just on her creative work but also on her dedication to empowering others, making it clear that her lifelong mission extends beyond personal success to a broader impact on the artistic community.
Fun Facts about Myrna Colley-Lee
Renowned Costume Designer –
She played a significant role in the Black Theatre Movement, designing costumes for award-winning productions.
Highly Educated –
She holds a Master’s degree in Costume and Stage Design from Temple University.
Arts Advocate –
She actively supports African American art and culture, contributing to various art foundations and museums.
Ex-Wife of Morgan Freeman –
She was married to Morgan Freeman for over 26 years before their divorce in 2010.
Private Lifestyle –
Unlike her ex-husband, she prefers to stay out of the public eye and live a low-key life.
Passionate Philanthropist –
She has worked with organizations like the Rock River Foundation, supporting the arts and education.
Worked in TV & Film –
Aside from theater, she also designed costumes for television, including the 1985 film Frederick Douglass: An American Life.
Respected in the Industry –
She is recognized as one of the most influential African American costume designers in theater.
Massive Net Worth –
Her estimated $160 million fortune is partly from her career and divorce settlement with Morgan Freeman.
Lifelong Commitment to the Arts –
Even in her later years, she remains involved in arts philanthropy, ensuring young artists get opportunities in the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions about Myrna Colley-Lee
Who is Myrna Colley-Lee?
Myrna Colley-Lee is a renowned costume designer, set designer, and art director, known for her contributions to theater, television, and film, particularly in the Black Theatre Movement.
How old is Myrna Colley-Lee?
She was born in 1941, making her 84 years old as of 2025.
What is Myrna Colley-Lee famous for?
She is best known for her costume and set designs in productions like The Piano Lesson, Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White, and Forest City.
Was Myrna Colley-Lee married to Morgan Freeman?
Yes, she was married to Morgan Freeman from 1984 until their divorce in 2010. They were together for over 26 years.
What is Myrna Colley-Lee net worth?
Her net worth is estimated to be around $160 million, partly due to her career and divorce settlement from Morgan Freeman.
Is Myrna Colley-Lee still active in the entertainment industry?
While she is no longer designing costumes actively, she remains involved in philanthropy and arts advocacy, supporting various cultural organizations.
Does Myrna Colley-Lee have children?
She does not have biological children but helped raise E’dena Hines, Morgan Freeman’s step-granddaughter, whom they considered their own.
Conclusion
Myrna Colley-Lee is a talented costume designer, set designer, and art director who has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, particularly in theater and television.
With a strong educational background and decades of experience, she played a vital role in the Black Theatre Movement, bringing authenticity and cultural depth to her work. Beyond her career, she is known for her philanthropy and advocacy for African American art and culture.
Though she gained public attention due to her marriage to Morgan Freeman, she has maintained a private and low-profile life, dedicating her efforts to supporting the arts and inspiring future generations.
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