Veteran Choreographer Dave Scott Dies at 52: Inside His Legacy from Step Up 2 to SYTYCD
Time to cut through the headlines and honor a titan of modern dance. Professional here with the essential breakdown on the untimely passing of Dave Scott, the visionary choreographer behind Step Up 2: The Streets and a leading voice on So You Think You Can Dance, who died at 52.
Scott’s career read like a dance-floor revolution. Born in Philadelphia in 1972, he rose through the ranks by blending street sensibility with theatrical polish. He cut his teeth on Michael Jackson tribute tours and quickly caught Hollywood’s eye. His breakout came in 2008 when he choreographed Step Up 2: The Streets, directing high-energy routines that earned acclaim from Variety and People Magazine alike. Critics praised his ability to fuse hip-hop, jazz and contemporary styles into seamless storytelling.
That same year, Scott strengthened his TV credentials as a guest choreographer on Fox’s juggernaut dance-competition series So You Think You Can Dance. Viewers still buzz about his adrenaline-charged jazz routine set to Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love,” which he crafted for season five. According to contestants interviewed by Entertainment Weekly, his exacting standards pushed performers to deliver career-making moments. Judges Nigel Lythgoe and Mary Murphy spotlighted Scott’s work as a showstopper on multiple seasons, cementing his reputation as a creative force.
Throughout his three-decade run, Scott collaborated with top names across music and film. He staged routines for Rihanna’s world tour and directed routines in commercials for Nike and Pepsi, as detailed in a Variety retrospective. Industry insiders told People that his signature “street theatrical” style influenced a generation of choreographers and dancers.
Details surrounding Scott’s death on April 1, 2024, remain private. Representatives have not disclosed a cause, but condolences poured in from former SYTYCD contestants and Step Up franchise stars. Actress Briana Evigan posted on Instagram, “He changed my life.” Fellow choreographer Napoleon and Tabitha D’umo tweeted a tribute noting his generosity and fearless creativity.
Scott’s awards cabinet included multiple nominations from the Choreography Media Awards and a win at the Hip Hop International Battle of the Stars. But it was his mentorship that resonated most. Dancers credit him with opening doors that reshaped entertainment standards and brought urban dance into the mainstream.
His last project was guest choreographing a Broadway revival, slated for fall 2024. Sources suggest he had just wrapped final rehearsals, leaving a void on stage and screen.
And there you have it. Make of that what you will.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and New York Post, People Magazine, Variety, Entertainment Weekly
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
