Rapper Fatman Scoop dies at 53, collapses on stage while being taken to hospital
Rapper and hype-man Fatman Scoop died after collapsing onstage during a show Friday night, producer Birch Michael said. He was 53.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I announce the passing of Isaac Freeman III, known professionally as Fatman Scoop,” Michael wrote on Facebook on Saturday. “You taught me how to become who I am today.”
The DJ said he became emotional while writing the post, concluding, “I love you Scoop thank you so much for everything you gave me. Rest in peace x.”
DJ I’m Tony Neal also paid tribute to Scoop on Instagram on Saturday, writing: “Unbelievable, #Sleepwell Scoop. I was hoping you’d get through this. 💔🕊🙏🏾”
He noted it has been a “tough month” for the New York native and added, “Your voice has entertained millions, and your legacy will continue. Family, I will miss you, @fatmanscoop.”
Neil reported Scoop’s date of death as Friday, August 30. Page Six has reached out to the late rap star’s rep for comment and confirmation of his passing.
Scoop, best known for his guest appearances on Missy Elliott’s “Lose Control” and Mariah Carey’s “I Like That,” was performing at Town Center Park in Hamden, Connecticut, when he suffered a medical emergency.
In a video circulating online, he appeared very energetic at first, but then walked to the back of the DJ booth and said, “Hamden make some noise!”
Shortly after, video obtained by TMZ showed paramedics rushing to his aid backstage during the show. He was reportedly given CPR.
At that point, a man on the mic could be heard saying, “The big man needs to calm down… he doesn’t have any fans on this stage.”
Scoop was then taken out on a stretcher and rushed to a nearby hospital for further examination.
Mayor Loren Garrett later said in a statement via Facebook, “Tonight, while performing at Hamden Town Center Park, Isaac Freeman, aka Fatman Scoop, suffered a medical emergency on stage.
“He is being taken to the hospital by ambulance. We will provide updates when they become available. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”
The official cause of death of Fatman Scoop has not yet been revealed.
