Who Is Myrna Colley-Lee?
Myrna Colley-Lee is a distinguished costume designer, philanthropist, and art enthusiast, widely recognized as the former wife of acclaimed actor Morgan Freeman. Beyond her connection to Freeman, Myrna has built a remarkable career in the arts and remains a prominent figure in philanthropy and design. Despite living a private life, her contributions to theater, charity, and the community have left a significant impact.
This article delves into her life, career, relationships, and accomplishments, highlighting her journey as a creative and independent individual.
Bio
- Full Name: Myrna Colley-Lee
- Date of Birth: January 1, 1941
- Place of Birth: Hamlet, North Carolina, USA
- Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Religion: Christian
Wiki
| Category | Details |
| Profession | Costume Designer, Philanthropist |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Arts, Woman’s College of UNC; Master’s in Scenic and Costume Design, Temple University |
| Known For | Costume Design, Philanthropy, Marriage to Morgan Freeman |
| Net Worth | Approx. $180 million (2024) |
Age
Myrna Colley-Lee was born on January 1, 1941, making her 83 years old as of 2024. Her lifelong passion for the arts has kept her vibrant and active in her endeavors.
Height and Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 75 kg
- Eye Color: Brown
- Hair Color: Black
Despite her connection to a famous Hollywood star, Myrna has always chosen a more understated presence, emphasizing her work and passion rather than media attention.
Education
Myrna’s journey into the arts began with her academic pursuits:
- Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina: Bachelor’s degree in arts.
- Brooklyn College, New York: Specialized training in scene painting.
- Temple University, Philadelphia: Master’s degree in scenic and costume design (1980).
Her strong academic foundation helped shape her into a talented and innovative costume designer.
Career
Myrna Colley-Lee is renowned for her work in costume design, where she brought stories and characters to life through her art.
Key Productions
- “Forest City”
- “The Piano Lesson”
- “Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White”
Her meticulous designs reflected the characters’ personalities and the narrative’s themes, earning her respect in the theater and film industries.
Legacy in Costume Design
Her unique style and dedication to her craft inspired many aspiring designers. Myrna remains celebrated for her ability to merge artistic creativity with storytelling.
Philanthropy and Community Involvement
Beyond her artistic achievements, Myrna actively supports the arts through her role as the curator of the Rock River Foundation, an organization promoting artistic projects. Her involvement underscores her commitment to fostering creativity and community.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Myrna Colley-Lee’s net worth is estimated to be around $180 million. This wealth primarily stems from her career and the substantial divorce settlement from Morgan Freeman, reportedly between $100 million and $400 million.
Family
- Spouse: Morgan Freeman (married 1984, divorced 2010)
- Children: Adopted Freeman’s step-granddaughter, E’Dena Hines
Despite the divorce, Myrna remains close to Morgan Freeman’s family and continues to cherish the bonds they shared.
Relationships
Since her divorce from Morgan Freeman in 2010, Myrna has chosen to remain single. She prefers a quiet life, focusing on her passions and philanthropic work rather than romantic relationships.
Social Media
Myrna Colley-Lee maintains a private life and is not active on social media platforms. Her preference for staying out of the public eye reflects her reserved personality and commitment to privacy.
Lifestyle and Interests
Myrna lives a fulfilling life rooted in creativity and community. She currently resides in Charleston, Mississippi, where she spends her time:
- Gardening: Enjoys planting flowers and nurturing her garden.
- Reading: Loves diving into books.
- Visiting Theaters and Museums: Stays connected to the arts.
- Traveling: Owns homes in New York and the British Virgin Islands, where she enjoys relaxing and exploring.
FAQs
Did Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman have children?
No, but they adopted Morgan Freeman’s step-granddaughter, E’Dena Hines, whom they raised together.
What is Myrna Colley-Lee’s net worth?
Her net worth is approximately $180 million as of 2024.
Does Myrna Colley-Lee stay in the public eye after her divorce?
No, she prefers a private life, focusing on art and charity work.
Summary
Myrna Colley-Lee is a remarkable individual who carved her own path in costume design and philanthropy. While her marriage to Morgan Freeman brought her into the spotlight, her career, passion for the arts, and charitable contributions are her true legacies. Today, she continues to inspire others through her work and dedication to community and creativity.
