Fatman Scoop, whose real name is Isaac Freeman III, has been a big name in U.S. hip-hop since 1992. He’s known for teaming up with big stars like Missy Elliott and Mariah Carey early in his career, and his fans have always been eager for more. But just hours after dropping the music video for his latest song, the rapper experienced a serious health scare.
Fatman Scoop made a huge splash with his hit “Be Faithful” in October 2003, which soared to the top of the charts in the U.K. and Ireland. Over the years, he’s released eight more songs and worked with a lot of famous names, including Lil Jon, Pitbull, and Skrillex.
Besides his music, Fatman Scoop also explored other ventures. He opened an ice cream shop and hosted a relationship show/podcast on ONLOQ.com and MTV. But he never gave up on his music career. In July 2024, he released a track called “No Popcorn” with Tech N9ne and recently teamed up with Dyce Payso for another song, “Let It Go.”
While on tour in the U.S., Fatman Scoop was performing in Hamden, Connecticut, on August 30 when he suddenly collapsed on stage. The mayor of Hamden, Lauren Garrett, confirmed the incident, noting that the rapper was 53 years old and had passed out during his performance at Town Center Park. Emergency responders arrived at 8:33 p.m. after people quickly tried to help Scoop with CPR.
A video from the scene shows the crowd in shock as the music stopped abruptly. Scoop was taken to the hospital on a stretcher, and the show was stopped. Sadly, the following day, his close friends and collaborators DJ Pure Cold and DJ Tony Neal confirmed on Instagram that Fatman Scoop had passed away.
DJ Tony Neal shared a heartfelt post, calling Fatman Scoop “family” and praising his impact on millions. DJ Pure Cold also paid tribute, expressing his gratitude for the experiences and lessons he learned from Scoop. Fans and fellow musicians have flooded social media with messages of sadness and remembrance for the legendary rapper.
Although official details about his death are still pending, Fatman Scoop’s legacy is being honored by those who knew and admired him.
