Myrna Colley-Lee’s name often conjures associations with her former marriage to the esteemed actor Morgan Freeman. However, she’s much more than a footnote in his story. Colley-Lee has forged her own remarkable path in the entertainment industry, leaving an indelible mark as a distinguished costume designer and theatrical producer. Her creative talents have graced numerous television series and films, with notable credits including “Wedding Ring: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White,” “The Piano Lesson,” “Relativity,” and “Forest City.” Through her exceptional work, Colley-Lee has brought characters to life on screen, contributing to the visual storytelling that captivates audiences worldwide.
But her artistic prowess extends beyond costume design. Myrna Colley-Lee is also a skilled set designer and art director, lending her talents to various art installations and commercial interiors for leading companies and organisations. Her eye for detail and ability to create immersive environments have garnered recognition and praise in the industry. Furthermore, Colley-Lee’s commitment to the arts goes beyond her creative endeavours; she serves as a commissioner for the Mississippi Arts Commission, advocating for and supporting artistic expression and cultural enrichment in her community and beyond. Through her multifaceted contributions to the world of entertainment and the arts, Myrna Colley-Lee has solidified her legacy as a talented and influential figure in her own right.
Who Is Myrna Colley-Lee?
Born in February 1941 in Hamlet, North Carolina, Myrna Colley-Lee emerged from humble beginnings to become a notable figure in the entertainment industry. While she gained recognition as the former spouse of actor Morgan Freeman and through her successful career as a designer, Colley-Lee has maintained a low profile when it comes to her personal life. Details about her parents and exact birth date remain undisclosed, reflecting her preference for privacy amidst the media spotlight. Despite her status as a celebrity spouse, Colley-Lee’s focus remains primarily on her professional endeavours rather than on public attention.
As an American citizen, Colley-Lee embarked on her academic journey after completing high school, enrolling at the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina. Here, she pursued her passion for art education, laying the groundwork for her future career in design. Subsequently, she continued her studies at Brooklyn College in New York, where she specialised in scene painting and properties, honing her skills in the visual arts. Later, her pursuit of knowledge led her to Temple University in Philadelphia, where she earned a master’s degree in scenic and costume design in 1980. Through her dedication to education and her commitment to honing her craft, Colley-Lee equipped herself with the expertise necessary to thrive in the competitive world of design.
Colley-Lee’s academic achievements served as the springboard for her subsequent success in the field of design. With her extensive training and expertise, she embarked on a career marked by creativity, innovation, and artistic vision. From her beginnings in North Carolina to her studies in New York and Philadelphia, Colley-Lee’s educational journey laid the foundation for her to make a lasting impact in the world of design and beyond.
Myrna Colley-Lee Early life
Myrna Colley-Lee’s journey began in 1941 in Hamlet, North Carolina, marking the inception of a remarkable life filled with artistic pursuits and academic achievements. At the age of six months, her family relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, before settling in Daytona Beach, Florida, where she commenced her elementary education. The family eventually found a home in Prairie View, Texas, where Myrna attended Prairie View A&M College, culminating in her graduation in 1957. These formative years laid the groundwork for her academic journey and ignited her passion for the arts.
Following her graduation from Prairie View A&M College, Myrna pursued further education at Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina, where she spent two years deepening her knowledge and refining her artistic skills. Subsequently, she continued her studies at the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG), where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in art education in 1962. This pivotal period of academic growth and exploration laid the foundation for her future endeavours in the world of design and education.
In the 1970s, Myrna embarked on a quest to expand her expertise by delving into the realms of scene painting and properties, undertaking studies at Brooklyn College. Her insatiable thirst for knowledge and her dedication to her craft propelled her to new heights as she honed her skills in the visual arts. Building upon this foundation, she pursued a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in costume and scenic design from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1980. Through her tireless pursuit of education and her commitment to excellence, Myrna Colley-Lee equipped herself with the skills and knowledge necessary to flourish in the competitive world of design and academia.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s Educational Journey
Myrna Colley-Lee’s journey began in 1941 in Hamlet, North Carolina, where she took her first steps towards a remarkable career in design. After completing her high school education, she pursued her passion for the arts at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, earning a bachelor’s degree in fine arts. This early academic foundation provided her with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the world of design. However, her thirst for learning and dedication to her craft did not end there. Colley-Lee continued her educational pursuits at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she obtained a master’s degree in stage and costume design. This advanced degree equipped her with the expertise and creativity necessary to excel in the competitive field of design, laying the groundwork for her future success.
With her formal education complete, Myrna Colley-Lee emerged as a formidable force in the world of design, armed with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for her craft. Her journey from the small town of Hamlet to the halls of esteemed universities speaks to her determination and dedication to her artistic pursuits. Through her education, Colley-Lee honed her skills, cultivated her artistic vision, and prepared herself for a career marked by innovation and creativity. Today, her academic achievements stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in design and serve as the foundation upon which she has built her illustrious career.
Myrna Colley-Lee Career
Following her academic achievements, Myrna Colley-Lee delved into the realm of the entertainment industry, where she showcased her talents as a costume designer, set designer, and art director. Her creative vision and expertise in design contributed to various productions, enriching the visual storytelling of television shows and films. Despite not being primarily known as an actress, Colley-Lee made a brief appearance in a single episode of the television show “60 Minutes.” Titled “Bridge to Gretna,” the episode depicted the harrowing experiences of Hurricane Katrina victims who were prevented from crossing a bridge by armed police officers. Though her role may have been small, Colley-Lee’s involvement in the production underscores her diverse contributions to the entertainment industry and her willingness to participate in projects that shed light on important social issues.
While Colley-Lee’s career has primarily revolved around behind-the-scenes work in design, her brief foray into acting exemplifies her versatility and willingness to explore different facets of the entertainment world. Despite her focus on costume design, set design, and art direction, her appearance on “60 Minutes” demonstrates her commitment to projects that resonate with social significance and raise awareness about important issues. Through her multifaceted contributions to the industry, Myrna Colley-Lee continues to leave a lasting impact, showcasing her talents and versatility in various creative endeavours within the realm of entertainment.
Myrna Colley-Lee Height and Weight
Standing at an average height of 5 feet 5 inches and maintaining a healthy weight of around 60 kilograms, Myrna Colley-Lee possesses a balanced physique that complements her dynamic presence in both her professional and personal life. While her stature may be considered average, her contributions to the fields of costume design, set design, and art direction have elevated her to a towering figure in the entertainment industry. Colley-Lee’s dedication to her craft shines through in her work, where she utilises her creative talents to bring characters and stories to life on screen. Beyond her physical attributes, it is her passion, skill, and commitment to excellence that have solidified her reputation as a prominent figure in the world of entertainment.
Despite her modest height, Myrna Colley-Lee’s impact extends far beyond her physical appearance. Her involvement in various philanthropic efforts underscores her desire to make a positive difference in the world. Through her contributions to charitable causes and her dedication to giving back to her community, Colley-Lee exemplifies the notion that true stature is measured not by height, but by the depth of one’s character and the extent of their impact on the lives of others. In both her professional endeavours and her philanthropic pursuits, Myrna Colley-Lee continues to inspire others with her talent, compassion, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place.
Myrna Colley-Lee’s Marital Journey
In 1964, Myrna Colley-Lee entered her first marriage with American jazz musician Don Pullen, a brief union that ended in divorce after about a year and a half. Despite the dissolution of this early marriage, it marked a pivotal point in Colley-Lee’s personal and professional trajectory.
Today, Myrna Colley-Lee is widely renowned in the world of film and theater costume design, having established herself as a distinguished figure through her exceptional talent and unwavering dedication. While she gained recognition initially as the wife of acclaimed actor Morgan Freeman, their marriage of over two decades came to an end in December 2007, with their divorce finalized in July 2008 under seal, leaving the reasons undisclosed to the public. Their relationship, spanning 26 years, left a profound imprint on both their lives and the collective consciousness.
Despite not having biological children together, Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman shared a familial bond that extended beyond their marital union. Colley-Lee embraced Freeman’s children from his previous marriage as part of her extended family, and they also chose to expand their family through the adoption of Freeman’s step-granddaughter, E’dena Hines. Tragically, E’dena’s life was cut short in 2015 due to a fatal stabbing by her boyfriend, bringing profound sorrow to the family and highlighting the complexities of their shared history. Through these trials, Colley-Lee’s journey reflects resilience in the face of adversity and underscores the enduring strength of family bonds.
Morgan Freeman and Myrna Colley-Lee’s Divorce
In December 2007, the news of Morgan Freeman and Myrna Colley-Lee’s separation rocked headlines, coming after a lengthy 26-year marriage. Their decision to part ways gained heightened attention following Freeman’s involvement in a car accident in August 2008. Despite rampant speculation, neither party publicly disclosed the reasons behind their separation, leaving room for swirling rumours, particularly regarding allegations of Freeman’s infidelity. Although the actor vehemently denied these claims, the public scrutiny surrounding their marital issues persisted, reflecting the challenges faced by couples navigating the complexities of fame and personal relationships.
The divorce proceedings between Morgan Freeman and Myrna Colley-Lee extended over nearly three years before reaching their conclusion in 2010. The former couple finalised their divorce in Mississippi, marking the end of a chapter in their lives. While Freeman’s attorney expressed relief that the separation concluded without a trial, reports indicated that the divorce settlement resulted in significant financial losses for the actor, estimated at around $100 million. Despite the public spotlight on their relationship’s demise, the exact details surrounding their marital struggles remained shielded from public view, underscoring the couple’s shared desire to safeguard their personal matters away from the prying eyes of the media and the public.
Does Myrna Colley-Lee have any kids?
Despite not having any biological children of her own with Morgan Freeman, Myrna Colley-Lee formed strong bonds with Freeman’s children from his previous marriage and other relationships. She shared a particularly close relationship with Freeman’s step-granddaughter, E’dena Hines, whom they both adopted and cared for. However, tragedy struck when Hines was brutally stabbed to death by her boyfriend, Lamar Davenport, allegedly while he was under the influence of drugs. During Davenport’s trial, his mother made shocking accusations against Morgan Freeman, claiming that he had molested Hines and played a role in her death. Freeman vehemently denied these allegations, asserting their falsity and maintaining his innocence throughout the ordeal.
In the wake of E’dena Hines’ tragic death, the public scrutiny surrounding the case added further distress to an already devastating situation. Despite the grief and turmoil, Myrna Colley-Lee remained steadfast in supporting Freeman and refuting the unfounded accusations. The loss of Hines, coupled with the ensuing trial and sensationalised allegations, cast a dark shadow over their family, underscoring the complexities and challenges they faced amidst profound tragedy.
Myrna Colley-Lee Philanthropic Contributions
Beyond her career and personal life, Myrna Colley-Lee is deeply committed to philanthropy, channelling her resources and influence into supporting various charitable causes. As the former wife of acclaimed actor Morgan Freeman, she has leveraged her platform to contribute to initiatives aimed at fostering artistic expression and community development. Colley-Lee’s involvement with organisations such as the Rock River Foundation and the Charleston Arts and Revitalization Effort Inc. underscores her dedication to promoting the arts and enriching local communities. Through her support, she has played a significant role in nurturing creative talent and revitalising cultural spaces, leaving a lasting impact on the artistic landscape.
In addition to her philanthropic endeavours, Myrna Colley-Lee actively engages with academic institutions, furthering her commitment to arts education and cultural enrichment. Her association with the Arts Department of Mississippi State University and performances at esteemed venues like the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts at the University of Mississippi demonstrate her dedication to fostering artistic excellence and nurturing the next generation of talent. By investing her time and resources into educational initiatives, Colley-Lee is not only preserving artistic heritage but also empowering future generations to explore their creative potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
Myrna Colley-Lee Net Worth
Myrna Colley-Lee’s financial standing is a blend of her successful career as a costume and set designer and the substantial divorce settlement she obtained from her marriage to Morgan Freeman. While her work in the entertainment industry undoubtedly contributes to her income, it was her divorce settlement that significantly boosted her wealth. Initially slated to receive $170 million, Myrna negotiated a remarkable $400 million settlement, securing her place in history with one of the largest divorce settlements ever recorded. Alongside the financial compensation, she retained ownership of valuable assets, including a $7 million residence in the British Virgin Islands, a home in Los Angeles, and an apartment near New York’s Central Park.
Despite her divorce from Morgan Freeman, Myrna Colley-Lee’s financial stability remains solid, thanks in part to her successful career and the significant settlement she received. While the details of their divorce settlement have garnered attention for its substantial figures, it’s clear that Myrna has established herself as a financially independent individual, capable of sustaining her lifestyle through her professional achievements and prudent financial decisions. Her ability to navigate both the personal and financial aspects of her life with resilience and determination underscores her strength as a woman who has carved her path to success on her terms.
Where Is Morgan Freeman’s Ex-Wife Now?
Following her divorce from Morgan Freeman, Myrna Colley-Lee has opted for a quieter, more private lifestyle, away from the public glare. Unlike her former spouse, who often finds himself in the media spotlight, Colley-Lee has chosen to keep a low profile, much like Opal Stone Perlman, the ex-wife of actor Ron Perlman. This deliberate decision to maintain privacy has resulted in limited information about her current activities and whereabouts being available to the public. While Freeman has made headlines for various reasons, including allegations that have since been retracted, Colley-Lee remains steadfast in her preference for a life out of the public eye, allowing her to navigate her post-divorce life on her own terms.
Despite the attention surrounding her high-profile marriage and subsequent divorce, Myrna Colley-Lee remains committed to preserving her privacy. Much like other celebrities who prioritise discretion, such as Opal Stone Perlman, she has chosen to step away from the spotlight and lead a more subdued existence. By shying away from media attention and maintaining a low-key lifestyle, Colley-Lee emphasises the importance of personal boundaries and self-preservation, allowing her to focus on her own well-being and pursue her interests away from the prying eyes of the public.
Quick Facts
- Myrna Colley-Lee, known as Morgan Freeman’s ex-wife, has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry as a distinguished costume designer and theatrical producer.
- Despite her association with Freeman, Colley-Lee has maintained a private personal life, with details about her upbringing and family background kept away from the media spotlight.
- Colley-Lee pursued her education at prestigious institutions like the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina and Temple University, where she honed her skills in art education and scenic design.
- Her career in the entertainment industry spans costume design, set design, and art direction, with notable credits in television series and films like “Wedding Ring: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White” and “The Piano Lesson.”
- Beyond her creative endeavours, Colley-Lee is actively involved in philanthropy, supporting organisations such as the Rock River Foundation and Charleston Arts and Revitalization Effort Inc., advocating for artistic expression and community development.
- Despite not having any biological children with Freeman, Colley-Lee shared a close relationship with his children from previous marriages and adopted his step-granddaughter, E’dena Hines.
- Colley-Lee’s divorce from Freeman in 2010 garnered attention due to the substantial settlement she received, estimated at $400 million, making it one of the largest divorce settlements in history.
- Since her divorce, Colley-Lee has chosen to live a private life, away from the public eye, focusing on her personal well-being and interests while maintaining a low-profile existence similar to other celebrities who prioritise discretion.
Conclusion
Myrna Colley-Lee’s journey from her humble beginnings to her acclaimed career as a costume designer and theatrical producer is a testament to her talent, dedication, and resilience. Despite being known as Morgan Freeman’s ex-wife, she has carved out her own path in the entertainment industry, leaving a lasting impact through her creative work and philanthropic efforts. Her story reflects the complexities of fame, personal relationships, and the importance of maintaining privacy amidst public scrutiny. Ultimately, Colley-Lee’s legacy extends far beyond her marital ties, cementing her reputation as a talented and influential figure in her own right
