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Choreographer Dave Scott, who worked on “Step Up 2,” “So You Think You Can Dance” and “Dancing with the Stars,” has died. He was 52.
Scott’s death was announced on his Instagram account Tuesday.
“Today we have lost an icon, a legend, a father and a dear friend,” the post’s caption began. “The weight of this loss will send ripples through time. But his memory and legacy will continue to live on.”
“We love you Dave Scott and everything you’ve accomplished and the joy and comfort you’ve brought to people will never be forgotten,” the statement continued.
“Everyone is invited to share this post and let it reach everyone around the world,” the caption added. “Show your love and support for this amazing individual and share the footprint he has left on this earth.”
The post, which featured multiple videos of Scott teaching dance, also included a message that read, “It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Dave Scott, who touched so many lives with his warmth, kindness and spirit.”
“During this difficult time we are doing our best to honor his memory in the way he deserves with love, dignity and respect,” the post added.
Celebrities who paid tribute to Scott in the comments section included “DWTS” judge Derek Hough and “Glee” alums Kevin McHale and Harry Shum Jr.
“Dave was like a big brother to so many of us,” said McHale, 67. “When I felt reallllly out of place amongst so many great performers, he always made me comfortable and confident. Watching him dance and teach was a gift.”
Shum Jr., 43, wrote, “This one hits hard. You gave me so much confidence as a performer and welcomed me with open arms to your dance world that many were inspired by. Thank you for spreading so much joy with your love of dance. May you rest in peace brother Dave.”
Former “So You Think You Can Dance” contestant Comfort Fedoke paid tribute to Scott in her own Instagram post, writing, “My heart is heavy… really heavy …but I’m beyond blessed to have gotten to know the man who was one of the people that first inspired me to dance. His work moved me before I ever met him.”
Dance choreographer and “Grey’s Anatomy” star Debbie Allen remembered Scott on Instagram as well, calling him “one of the most gifted and influential choreographers and creative directors in the Film, Television, and Hip Hop worlds.”
“His light, laughter, and legacy will forever live in our hearts. We will always speak his name,” Allen, 75, added.
Scott was born on Aug. 15, 1972, in Compton, Calif. He went to Weber State University in Ogden, Utah where he began to pursue his passion for dance. He was discovered by Rob Base’s manager and joined the hip-hop star’s tour.
Scott worked on the films “You Got Served” (2004) and “Step Up 2: The Streets” (2008), the former of which became Scott’s calling card for its innovative mix of classic steps and breakdancing.
“It was the first time on film you were seeing a mix of B-boys and choreographed dancing in a battle mode,” Scott told The Post in 2013.
Scott was also the choreographer behind Season 8 of “Dancing with the Stars,” which was won by Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson, and “So You Think You Can Dance” from Season 3 onwards.
English (US)