US rapper Fatman Scoop has died at the age of 53 after collapsing during a concert on Friday in Connecticut, his representative confirmed to the BBC. The rapper, whose real name is Isaac Freeman III, was performing at Town Center Park in Hamden when he collapsed on stage mid-set. He was rushed to a local hospital by ambulance, as announced by Mayor Lauren Garrett on Facebook.

Fatman Scoop’s booking agency, MN2S, confirmed his passing, stating, “Scoop was a beloved figure in the music world, whose work was loved by countless fans across the globe. His iconic voice, infectious energy, and great personality made an indelible mark on the industry.”

In a heartfelt tribute, his family described him as “a radiant soul, a beacon of light on the stage and in life,” adding, “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.”

Fatman Scoop rose to fame in New York City’s hip hop scene during the 1990s. He was featured on popular tracks including the Grammy-winning “Lose Control” by Missy Elliott and “It’s Like That” by Mariah Carey. His sleeper hit “Be Faithful,” released in 1999, achieved international success in 2003, topping charts in Ireland and the UK.

Beyond music, Scoop appeared on UK television in 2004 in Channel 4’s “Chancers,” where musicians mentored aspiring UK artists aiming for success in the US. He also participated in “Celebrity Big Brother 16: UK vs USA” in 2015, where he was the third housemate to be evicted.

DJ Pure Cold, Fatman Scoop’s tour manager, expressed his grief on Instagram, writing, “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 truly made me the man I am today.”

Fatman Scoop was scheduled to perform at the UK’s Reminisce Festival on 7 September. The festival shared their sorrow on Instagram, describing his death as “devastating,” and noting, “He was not just one of our most popular performers, he was a cherished member of the Reminisce family. His energy, talent, and infectious spirit will be missed more than words can express.”