The music community has lost the mastermind behind some of their best dance moves.
Paul Roberts, a renowned choreographer with credits working with One Direction, the Spice Girls, Sam Smith and more, died Sept. 26 after a cancer battle. He was 52.
“On the evening of 26th September 2025 after a courageous battle with cancer, Paul passed away gently at home, surrounded by his family,” a statement shared to the choreographer’s Instagram Sept. 28 read. “His departure, much like his life, was filled with grace. RIP.”
In response to the loss of the choreographer, who worked closely with Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik and the late Liam Payne for the entirety of their time as a band, many of Paul’s collaborators and friends shared memories of their experiences together.
Louis’ sister Lottie Tomlinson, who often traveled with her brother on tour assisting in the band’s hair and makeup department, added a crying and broken heart emoji under the post, while One Direction guitarist Sandy Beales wrote, “An amazing man, one of the true gems to be around, sending massive love to his family!”