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Former choreographer for One Direction, Spice Girls, and Steps, Paul Roberts, has passed away at the age of 52 after battling cancer, as confirmed by his family on Sunday.
The announcement came via social media from his long-time partner Phil Griffin, who revealed that the talented performer had died the previous night.
Saddened fans and notable friends were quick to express their grief, with ‘heartbroken’ Sam Smith leading the tributes, joined by Spice Girls’ Emma Bunton, Girls Aloud’s Nicola Roberts, and Sophie Ellis-Bextor.
On Sunday, Paul’s partner Phil shared with Instagram followers: ‘Yesterday evening, after bravely fighting cancer, Paul peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by loved ones.’
‘His departure, much like his life, was filled with grace RIP.’
Paul was regarded as one of the most sought-after choreographers globally, with credits including work with Katy Perry, Sir Paul McCartney, and the Spice Girls’ 2019 reunion tour.
Former One Direction and Steps choreographer Paul Roberts has died aged 52 following a battle with cancer, his family confirmed on Sunday
Devastated fans and famous friends rushed to the comments with ‘heartbroken’ Sam Smith leading the tributes (pictured with Harry Styles)
In a message shared on Sunday, Phil wrote: ‘Yesterday evening, after showing immense courage against cancer, Paul quietly left us at home with his family by his side.’
Paul had worked with One Direction several times as well as with Harry Styles on his Treat People With Kindness music video.
He devised the choreography for One Direction videos such including Steal My Girl, Best Song Ever and Kiss You and won a MTV VMA gong for Best Choreography in 2021.
Speaking about his time with the boy band, Paul told the BBC: ‘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.”
Tributes poured in for the late dance expert, with pop star Sam writing: ‘This is heartbreaking. My thoughts and heart is with all of Paul’s family and friends at this hard time. Paul was a light in this world. I’ll never forget his kindness and his sparkle. His magic will never leave the people he loved. Paul is Everlasting’
While Emma Bunton said: ‘My heart is broken being in his company was my happy place. Thinking of you @thephilgriffin sending love to you and all his family’.
Sophie Ellis Bextor commented: ‘That is so sad. Paul 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. Sending lots of love to all who knew him. Xxxxx’.
Paul was one of the most in-demand choreographers in the world who also worked with Katy Perry , Sir Paul McCartney as well as the Spice Girls’ 2019 reunion tour (pictured with Mel B)
Paul had worked with the X Factor boyband several times as well as with Harry Styles (pictured right) on his Treat People With Kindness music video (pictured Phoebe Waller Bridge left)
Girls’ Aloud’s Nicola Roberts wrote in her tribute: Waking to the saddest news. So unbelievably sorry @Philgriffin Paul was such a beautiful light and we were very lucky to have him as our first introduction. Sending all my love xx’.
Strictly star Layton Williams said: ‘One of the kindest most beautiful souls. Was an honour to know and have worked for you Paul. Sleep well beautiful man.’
Lottie Tomlinson, sister Louis Tomlinson, shared a heartbroken emoji, while his and Niall Horan’s publicist Simon Jones commented: ‘So sad to hear this news about such an incredible person. Sending much love and light.’
While All Saints’ Nicole Appleton wrote: ‘I can’t actually cope!! I will truly miss you!! You brought so much love and joy and pure happiness to our chaotic world!! And remembering our song “Ben the two of us need look no more!” Sending love to you my darling and your family’.
Atomic Kitten’s Natasha Hamilton added: ‘I can’t believe what I’m reading- I am so sorry to hear this Phil. A million wonderful memories with Paul. I’ve watched how incredible his life became after all of those – what a sad day. Thinking about you today & sending so much love x’.
While her bandmate Liz McClarnon commented: ‘Oh god, I am SO SORRY! What a beautiful soul! Phil, I am sending you so much love and strength. God, this is just too sad!’.
