A cherished figure from the One Direction era has tragically passed away following a valiant fight against cancer.
This talented choreographer, who brought infectious energy to stages and screens worldwide, leaves behind a legacy of joy at just 52 years old.
He was remembered by those who knew him best as one of the gentlest and most radiant spirits in the entertainment world, collaborating with global icons like pop sensations Steps, the iconic Spice Girls, and a former band heartthrob.
His standout contributions came through his close partnership with the chart-topping boy band, shaping their high-energy presence in the 2013 documentary concert film that captured their meteoric rise.
Beyond that, he infused magic into their smash hit ‘Best Song Ever’ music video, crafting dance sequences that became instant classics, beloved by devotees of the original quintet—later a quartet after one member’s departure in 2015.
In the wake of this profound loss, close loved ones shared a poignant message: “Yesterday evening, after a courageous battle with cancer, he passed away gently at home, surrounded by his family.
“His departure, much like his life, was filled with grace.”
An outpouring of grief soon followed from fellow artists and admirers, honoring the indelible mark he left on music and performance.
Grammy-winning vocalist Sam Smith shared: “This is heartbreaking.
“My thoughts and heart is with all of his family and friends at this hard time.
“He was a light in this world. I’ll never forget his kindness and his sparkle. His magic will never leave the people he loved.”
Chart-topping artist Sophie Ellis Bextor echoed the sentiment: “That is so sad. He was so special.
“So talented, yes, but also warm and sweet and thoughtful and fun.
“I’m so sorry to hear he’s not here any more.”
In his later years, he teamed up again with the ex-bandmate turned solo sensation for the uplifting ‘Treat People With Kindness’ music video, a project that earned the entire creative squad a prestigious VMA for Best Choreography back in 2021.
Reflecting on that triumph at the time, he posted: “Wow, huge news to wake up too.
“I can’t believe we’ve won a Moon Man @vmas.
“You really loved our dance! Thank you so much for all the messages – I will get around to replying, probably after a margarita or two. We must celebrate, I’m all giddy. For the love of dance.”
Looking back on his time shaping the boy band’s dynamic in a 2021 BBC chat, he reflected: “It was always really interesting working with One Direction.
“I knew very early on that there was a magic about them and I could see they had other skill-sets aside from being this very good-looking five-piece, and then four-piece, band.
“In personal moments you got to see them flourish.
“They’d mess around doing silly dance moves but I’d think, ‘actually if you wanted to dance really well you sure as hell could do it.’”
The visionary talent was Paul Roberts.