Bussell, who also came out from retirement, flew to the stage on a flaming phoenix and when landing was met by Cope, Gary Avis, Edward Watson, Nehemiah Kish and over 200 ballet dancers, after which the Olympic Flame was extinguished. In 2019, he left his role as a full-time "répétiteur". Kevin O'Hare, the artistic director of the company, said he hoped Cope would return and coach from time to time. Cope is married to former Royal Ballet principal dancer Maria Almeida. They have two children.