The professional dance world is mourning the loss of a huge talent within the industry. David Lee Scott Jr., who worked as the choreographer in residence for “Dancing With the Stars” in season eight, has died at the age of 52. Scott was also a choreographer for “So You Think You Can Dance” from season three onwards.
Scott’s family posted the news on his official Instagram, writing in a statement, “Today we have lost an icon, a legend, a father and a dear friend. The weight of this loss will send ripples through time. But his memory and legacy will continue to live on.”
Dave Scott’s Family Needs Help With Donations

The family’s statement on Instagram continues, “We love you, Dave Scott, and everything you’ve accomplished, and the joy and comfort you’ve brought to people will never be forgotten. Everyone is invited to share this post and let it reach everyone around the world. Show your love and support for this amazing individual and share the footprint he has left on this earth.”
Dave’s family also asked for financial help for his memorial expenses, saying, “The link in the Bio is for donations to the family to help with memorial arrangements and to celebrate Dave Scott’s life with a proper send-off in a celebration of life.”
Tributes Pour in for Dave Scott
Needless to say, once the news broke of Dave’s passing, the tributes began rolling in.
The legendary Debbie Allen memorialized him on Instagram, saying, “Dave Scott, one of the most gifted and influential choreographers and creative directors in the Film, Television, and Hip Hop worlds, breathed his last 5 6 7 8 yesterday and joined God’s crew. His light, laughter, and legacy will forever live in our hearts. We will always speak his name. Rest well, my dear friend.”
Scott’s fellow “So You Think You Can Dance” choreographer Mia Michaels wrote, “My Dave. I love you forever. You will never be forgotten.”
Comfort Fedoke, a “SYTYCD” alum, also posted a tribute on her Instagram, 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. @theofficialdavescott.”
She continues, “What makes this loss even more profound is that Dave was the one who created the routine ‘Forever’ — a piece I danced with big bro Stephen (rest in power). That was my bridge to knowing Dave on a personal level & the beginning of a creative relationship I’ll always cherish. And now… I find myself singing Forever again, but this time for you, Dave. Forever in my spirit. Forever thankful for your talent and our bond. Forever in our hearts.”
Scott also choreographed for the films “Stomp the Yard,” “Step Up 2: The Streets,” and “Step Up 3D.”