Who was Dave Scott? All about Step up 2 choreographer as he dies at 52

Dave Scott, the famed choreographer of Step Up 2: The Streets and You Got Served, died on June 16, 2025, at the age of 52. His death was confirmed in a statement shared on his official Instagram account, with no cause of death being revealed. The post 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. In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to contribute towards memorial arrangements and helping us celebrate Dave Scott's life in a meaningful way, with a celebration of life."

Born in Compton, California, on August 15, 1972, Scott first started as a street dancer in his hometown, where he discovered his love of dancing after being inspired by the local hip-hop community. According to People Magazine, inspired by pioneers like Michael Jackson, and by films like Beat Street and ­Breakin’, he taught himself to dance by copying moves he saw on TV.

His career was transformed, however, when he was discovered dancing in a club while at Weber State University on a basketball scholarship and went on a tour doing choreography for hip-hop artist Rob Base.

According to Broadway Dance Center, Scott soon became one of hip hop’s most well-known dance choreographers. He won the Choreography Media Honor Award for Best Choreography in a Feature in the 2004 film, You Got Served.

Dave Scott also made his mark in Hollywood when he choreographed Stomp the Yard, Step Up 2: The Streets, and Step Up 3D. He was also a contributing producer of Battle of the Year: Dream Team, the first b-boy culture-based movie to be released worldwide.

A look into Dave Scott's television career and his relationship with Debbie Allen

Apart from his movie credits, Dave Scott has also impacted television. He served as a resident choreographer on So You Think You Can Dance from its third season and worked on season eight of Dancing with the Stars.

His choreography also went on to appear on shows such as America’s Best Dance Crew. Dave Scott was also an influential artist developer, working with B2K, Mindless Behavior, Tyrese, and Brian McKnight to develop careers and stage acts of those artists.

His influence extended beyond the world of choreography. He was both a mentor and teacher, teaching his craft in masterclasses and workshops throughout the country. He was also highly involved in Debbie Allen’s Los Angeles dance academy, where he taught hip-hop dancing and nurtured a new group of dancers.

After his death, many tributes from the entertainment industry poured in. He was recalled by celebrities including Kevin McHale, Harry Shum Jr., and Debbie Allen, who remembered him not only as a talented artist but as a generous and kind-hearted spirit who lifted up those around him:

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"Dave Scott, 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," Debbie Allen wrote on her Instagram.

Former collaborators said that Scott made them feel confident and welcome during shoots, and many described him as a big brother type.

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