Misty Copeland slams Timothée Chalamet's comments on ballet

Misty Copeland is speaking out against derogatory comments made by actor Timothée Chalamet against the art form.

Misty Copeland, one of America's premier ballerinas, is speaking out against derogatory comments made by actor Timothée Chalamet against the art form.

Copeland, 43, said during a panel for the cosmetics company Aveeno that she was surprised by Chalamet's remarks, particularly after he had asked for her help in promoting his latest film, "Marty Supreme." The 30-year-old actor is currently facing backlash for saying during a CNN and Variety town hall that he was grateful not to be working in ballet or opera because "no one cares about this anymore."

"First, I have to say that it's very interesting that he invited me to be a part of promoting Marty Supreme with respect to my art form," she said. "I think that it's important that we acknowledge that, yes, this is an art form that's not 'popular' and a part of pop culture as movies are, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have enduring relevance in culture."

Timothée Chalamet slammed for saying ‘no one cares’ about ballet or opera

"I think that it's often mistaken that when something is popular, that it's more meaningful or more impactful," Copeland said. "There's a reason that the opera and ballet have been around for over 400 years, and I think when you have access and opportunity to be a part of something like that, it can change your life."