Myrna Colley-Lee: The Life, Career, and Legacy of Morgan Freeman’s Ex-Wife

Myrna Colley-Lee, though often remembered as the ex-wife of renowned actor Morgan Freeman, has carved out her own path in life that deserves recognition. While the media frequently focuses on her relationship with Freeman, Myrna is much more than just his former spouse. She has had a successful career as a costume designer, is actively involved in philanthropy, and leads a quiet, private life after her divorce. In this article, we will explore Myrna’s early life, career, marriage to Morgan Freeman, their divorce, her life post-divorce, and her ongoing charitable work.

Myrna Colley-Lee Early Life

Born on January 1, 1941, in Hamlet, North Carolina, Myrna Colley-Lee’s early years were steeped in her love for art. Growing up, she nurtured her passion for creativity and pursued formal education to hone her artistic talents. After high school, Myrna attended the Woman’s College of the University of North Carolina, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in the arts. Her academic journey didn’t stop there; Myrna expanded her skills further by studying scene painting at Brooklyn College in New York.

Her passion for art and design led her to pursue a Master’s degree in scenic and costume design at Temple University in Philadelphia, which she completed in 1980. These years of academic training and exposure to various aspects of the arts set the stage for Myrna’s future as a prominent costume designer in theater and film.

Myrna Colley-Lee’s Career

Myrna Colley-Lee’s career as a costume designer is marked by her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft. Throughout her career, she has made significant contributions to the theater and film industries, creating costumes that help bring characters and stories to life. Her ability to design costumes that reflect the mood, themes, and personalities of characters has earned her respect and admiration in the artistic community.

She has worked on several notable productions, including Forest City, The Piano Lesson, and Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White. Each of these projects showcased Myrna’s knack for understanding the nuances of storytelling and expressing those elements through costume design. Her designs were not just about clothing; they were integral parts of the narrative, helping actors embody their roles and allowing audiences to connect more deeply with the stories being told.

Myrna’s professional journey is an inspiration to many aspiring artists. Through her work, she has demonstrated that creativity and dedication can lead to a successful and fulfilling career. Her designs have become a staple in the world of costume design, and she remains a respected figure in the industry.

Myrna Colley-Lee’s Marriage to Morgan Freem

Myrna Colley-Lee’s personal life has been highly publicized, especially due to her long-term marriage to Morgan Freeman. The couple met through mutual friends, and their relationship blossomed into a romantic partnership. They married on June 16, 1984, and chose to live a more private life away from the Hollywood spotlight. They settled in Tallahatchie County, Mississippi, where they enjoyed a peaceful, rural lifestyle, far from the glare of the entertainment industry.

While Myrna and Morgan did not have biological children together, they adopted E’Dena Hines, Morgan Freeman’s step-granddaughter from his previous marriage. The couple raised E’Dena as their own daughter, providing her with a loving and supportive family environment. This act of adoption demonstrated Myrna and Morgan’s commitment to family, and it played a key role in shaping their life together.

Their marriage lasted over 26 years, which made them one of Hollywood’s most stable and enduring couples. However, like many long-term relationships, theirs was not without challenges. Despite their many years together, the couple faced difficulties that ultimately led to their separation. In 2007, rumors about Morgan Freeman’s infidelity began to circulate, and although Morgan denied the claims, the relationship began to deteriorate.

Their Divorce Settlement

After years of tension, Myrna and Morgan Freeman began the process of divorce in December 2007, and their separation was finalized in September 2010. Their divorce marked the end of a long and significant chapter in both of their lives. While the exact reasons for their split remain private, it was widely speculated that infidelity may have played a role in the breakdown of their marriage.

As part of the divorce settlement, Myrna Colley-Lee received a substantial financial settlement, with estimates ranging between $100 million and $400 million. This figure, which included both cash and property, significantly boosted Myrna’s wealth and financial independence. By 2024, Myrna’s estimated net worth is believed to be around $180 million. This financial settlement was a result of their lengthy marriage and Myrna’s contributions to both their personal and professional lives.

Myrna Colley-Lee’s Life After Divorce

After her divorce from Morgan Freeman, Myrna Colley-Lee chose to live a quieter life away from the media’s gaze. She has largely remained out of the public eye, avoiding social media and staying away from public events. Despite this, it is clear that Myrna has continued to focus on her artistic career and charitable endeavors.

In particular, Myrna has remained dedicated to the Rock River Foundation, where she serves as the curator. The foundation is focused on supporting and promoting the arts, and Myrna’s involvement has helped fund various artistic projects. Her work with the foundation reflects her passion for creativity and her commitment to fostering a love for the arts in others.

Beyond her work with the Rock River Foundation, Myrna is also involved in various other philanthropic activities. She uses her wealth and resources to support charitable causes, contributing to initiatives that make a difference in her community and beyond. Her focus on giving back to society has been an essential part of her life after the divorce.

Despite her desire for privacy, Myrna’s charitable work continues to have a positive impact on those around her. She is a shining example of someone who, despite personal setbacks, chooses to use her position to help others and leave a lasting legacy.

Myrna Colley-Lee Age

As of 2024, Myrna Colley-Lee is 83 years old. Born on January 1, 1941, she continues to live an active life, contributing to both the arts and charitable causes. Her age, however, has not slowed her down; she remains involved in the activities that bring her joy and fulfillment, including her ongoing work with the Rock River Foundation and her passion for the arts.

Myrna’s zodiac sign is Capricorn, and she holds American nationality with African-American ethnicity. She has always maintained a low profile, choosing to keep much of her personal life private while letting her work speak for itself.

Myrna Colley-Lee Appearance

Myrna Colley-Lee has always been known for her graceful and composed appearance. Standing at about 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) and weighing around 75 kg, Myrna has maintained an elegant and timeless look. She has brown eyes and black hair, and although she has never sought the spotlight, her presence is marked by an understated beauty. Her style, much like her personality, reflects a sense of quiet sophistication.

Where is Myrna Colley-Lee Now?

Currently, Myrna Colley-Lee resides in Charleston, Mississippi, where she enjoys a peaceful life away from the hustle and bustle of the entertainment world. She spends much of her time in her garden, nurturing flowers and plants, a pastime that brings her great joy. Myrna also enjoys reading books, visiting art museums, and attending theater performances, which keeps her connected to her lifelong love for the arts.

In addition to her home in Mississippi, Myrna also has residences in New York and the British Virgin Islands, where she can relax and enjoy some time away from her routine. These locations provide her with the peace and privacy she desires, allowing her to recharge and reflect.

Despite her preference for a private life, Myrna continues to engage in charity work, ensuring that her legacy extends far beyond her professional career. Her dedication to helping others through the Rock River Foundation and other initiatives demonstrates her commitment to making a positive impact on the world.

Is Morgan Freeman Married Now?

As of 2024, Morgan Freeman is not married. Following his divorce from Myrna Colley-Lee in 2010, Freeman has remained single, although there have been rumors regarding his romantic relationship with his business partner, Lori McCreary. Despite the speculation, Freeman has not remarried, and he continues to focus on his career and other aspects of his life.

Final Words

Myrna Colley-Lee’s story is one of artistic passion, resilience, and philanthropy. Though she gained attention as the ex-wife of the legendary actor Morgan Freeman, Myrna has built her own impressive legacy through her work as a costume designer and her ongoing commitment to charity. Her life serves as a reminder that even in the shadow of fame, it is possible to carve out a path that is both fulfilling and meaningful. Myrna’s dedication to the arts and her desire to give back to her community make her an inspiring figure, one whose impact extends far beyond her personal relationship with Morgan Freeman.