Myrna Colley-Lee: The Life of Morgan Freeman’s Former Wife and Acclaimed Costume Designer

Myrna Colley-Lee is a talented costume designer and philanthropist who gained recognition as the former wife of Hollywood actor Morgan Freeman. Beyond her marriage to the legendary actor, Myrna built a successful career in theater and film, leaving a lasting impact on the creative arts.

When Was Myrna Colley-Lee Born?

Myrna Colley-Lee was born on January 1, 1941, in Hamlet, North Carolina. She spent her early years in her hometown, where she developed a passion for the arts. While Myrna values her privacy, not much is known about her family or childhood. Despite this, her educational achievements reflect her determination and creativity.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in arts from the Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina. Myrna further honed her skills by studying scene painting and properties at Brooklyn College in New York. Her dedication to the arts led her to Temple University in Philadelphia, where she earned a master’s degree in scenic and costume design in 1980.

Career as a Costume Designer

Myrna Colley-Lee began her career as a costume designer with a strong focus on theater productions. She brought her expertise to numerous projects, earning respect and admiration in the creative industry. Some of her notable works include Forest City, The Piano Lesson, and Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story In Black And White. Her attention to detail and ability to convey emotion through costumes made her a sought-after designer in the theater world.

Her contributions extended beyond theater to include television and film, showcasing her versatility and creativity. Myrna’s designs helped enhance storytelling, making her an essential figure in the projects she worked on.

Marriage to Morgan Freeman

Myrna Colley-Lee met Morgan Freeman through a mutual friend, and their connection blossomed into a deep relationship. The couple married on June 16, 1984, and settled in Tallahatchie County, Mississippi, where they enjoyed a serene and peaceful life away from the Hollywood spotlight.

Although Myrna and Morgan did not have biological children together, they adopted Morgan’s step-granddaughter, E’Dena Hines, from his previous marriage. E’Dena became an integral part of their family, and Myrna played a key role in her upbringing.

Divorce and Settlement

After 26 years of marriage, reports of troubles in their relationship surfaced in 2007. Their divorce was finalized in September 2010, marking the end of a long chapter in their lives. While the reasons for their separation were not explicitly disclosed, rumors of Morgan Freeman’s alleged infidelity circulated widely. However, Freeman vehemently denied these claims.

The divorce settlement was one of the most substantial in Hollywood, with Myrna receiving a significant amount of cash and real estate valued between $100 million and $400 million. This financial settlement greatly contributed to her current net worth, estimated at $160 million as of 2024.

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Philanthropy and Community Involvement

Myrna Colley-Lee’s contributions extend beyond the arts. She is the curator of the Rock River Foundation, an organization dedicated to nurturing and promoting the arts. Through this role, she has supported numerous projects aimed at enriching the cultural landscape.

Her involvement in various charitable initiatives highlights her commitment to positively impacting the community. Despite her divorce from Morgan Freeman, Myrna has maintained close relationships with his extended family, showcasing her compassionate and kind-hearted nature.

Life After Divorce

Following her divorce, Myrna Colley-Lee has chosen a quiet and private life. She resides in Mississippi, focusing on her personal well-being and philanthropic endeavors. Unlike many public figures, Myrna does not engage with social media platforms, emphasizing her preference for privacy.

Her life after marriage reflects her independent spirit and dedication to her passions. She has continued to build on her legacy in the arts while enjoying a peaceful lifestyle away from the public eye.

Personal Details and Physical Appearance

Myrna Colley-Lee stands at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) and weighs approximately 75 kg. She has brown eyes and black hair, reflecting her graceful and poised demeanor. Although details about her body measurements are unavailable, her elegance and confidence shine through in her public appearances.

Legacy and Impact

Myrna Colley-Lee’s career as a costume designer has left a significant mark on the theater and film industries. Her designs have elevated numerous productions, earning her a lasting reputation as a creative visionary.

Her philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Rock River Foundation, underscore her dedication to giving back to the community. Myrna’s life serves as an example of resilience, independence, and the pursuit of one’s passions, inspiring countless individuals in the process.

Final Thoughts

Myrna Colley-Lee’s journey from a small-town artist to a celebrated designer and philanthropist showcases her unwavering commitment to excellence. While she may be best known as the former wife of Morgan Freeman, her contributions to the arts and community solidify her legacy as an influential and accomplished figure.

(FAQs)

How much did Myrna Colley-Lee receive in her divorce settlement?

Myrna Colley-Lee received an estimated $100–400 million in cash and real estate during her divorce from Morgan Freeman, making it one of Hollywood’s most substantial settlements.

Did Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman have any children together?

No, Myrna and Morgan did not have biological children, but they adopted E’Dena Hines, Freeman’s step-granddaughter from his previous marriage.

Why did Myrna Colley-Lee and Morgan Freeman divorce?

While the exact reasons were never officially disclosed, rumors of Morgan Freeman’s alleged infidelity were widely reported. Freeman, however, denied these allegations.

What is Myrna Colley-Lee’s net worth in 2024?

Myrna Colley-Lee’s net worth is estimated to be around $160 million, largely due to her successful career and divorce settlement.

What is Myrna Colley-Lee’s role in the arts community?

She is the curator of the Rock River Foundation, a philanthropic organization focused on promoting and nurturing the arts. Her influence extends beyond costume design to community enrichment.