ABT Principal Cory Stearns Retires at 40 After Jaffe Request
Cory Stearns, a principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre for his entire career, has retired from performing at age 40. The decision was prompted by artistic director Susan Jaffe, who asked him to make room for younger dancers. Stearns expressed initial unhappiness but has since adopted a philosophical outlook, stating gratitude for his tenure with ABT and acknowledging that continuing to dance solely for the sake of dancing is not what he wants at this point. His retirement marks the end of a long-standing career with the company.
Key facts
- Cory Stearns retired from performing at age 40.
- He was a principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre.
- Artistic director Susan Jaffe asked him to step aside for younger dancers.
- Stearns was initially unhappy with the decision.
- He expressed gratitude for his lifelong association with ABT.
- Stearns said continuing to dance for the sake of dancing is not what he wants now.
- His retirement was reported by The New York Times on June 17, 2026.
- Stearns has been with ABT his entire career.
Entities
Artists
- Cory Stearns
- Susan Jaffe
Institutions
- American Ballet Theatre
- The New York Times