Rapper Fatman Scoop dead at 53
Fatman Scoop hosts Fridayz Live 23 at Rod Laver Arena on November 10, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Naomi Rahim/WireImage)
Rapper Fatman Scoop, born with the name Isaac Freeman, has died. He was 53.
His family and tour manager, Michael Birch, shared statements on social media following the artist's death.
"It is with profound sadness and very heavy hearts that we share news of the passing of the legendary and iconic FatMan Scoop," a post on his Instagram page read. "Last night, the world lost a radiant soul, a beacon of light on the stage and in life."
"FatMan Scoop was not just a world class performer, he was a father, brother, uncle and friend. He was the laughter in our lives, a constant source of support, unwavering strength, and courage," the tribute continued.
The hype man and radio personality was performing at a summer concert, Friday, hosted at Hamden Town Center Park in Connecticut. Hamden is six miles from New Haven.
Mayor Lauren Garrett shared on Facebook that the rapper had a "medical emergency on stage" and was transported to the hospital by ambulance.
"FatMan Scoop was known to the world as the undisputed voice of the club. His music made us dance and embrace life with positivity. His joy was infectious and the generosity he extended to all will be deeply missed but never forgotten," his family’s post stated.
"As we mourn the loss of FatmanScoop, we also celebrate his remarkable life and the countless lives he touched," the statement concluded. "FatMan Scoop’s legacy is of love and brightness, it will reside in our hearts and memories forever."
Video circulated online of the rapper shirtless and hyping up the crowd shortly before he collapsed. A loud thud was heard in the background.
"Hold up, you gotta understand this. Big man, gotta relax, I’m stretching… Big man gotta chill," a voice over the mic said out of breath. "They ain’t got no fans on this stage. Jesus."
"I just want to say this, Hamden, where ya’ll at? Make some noise for me, heavy baby."
Medical staff were seen running towards the stage and appeared to be performing CPR on the rapper.
Fatman Scoop’s tour manager, Michael, additionally paid tribute to the rapper.
It is with the heaviest of hearts I announce the passing of Isaac Freeman III, known professionally as Fatman Scoop," the statement read on Instagram.
"You taught me how to be the man I am today. I love you Scoop, thank you so much for everything you gave to me."
The post was accompanied by the caption, "I am honestly lost for words... You took me all over the world and had me performing alongside you on some of the biggest and greatest stages on this planet, the things you taught me have truely made me the man I am today."
Fatman Scoop has worked with some of the biggest music icons, including on Missy Elliott’s track "Lose Control" and Mariah Carey’s song "It’s Like That."