Shanda Freeman, the ex-wife of hip-hop luminary Fatman Scoop, took to Instagram on Aug. 31 to pay tribute to the legendary hype man and rapper one day after he fatally collapsed on stage. He was 53.
Posting a still from their 2008 MTV series and podcast, Man And Wife, Freeman reflected on the career of her late ex-husband, calling him “an icon” and a “legend.”
The producer and writer also praised the beloved star for his “pure heart” and loving spirit.
“He was a pure heart and loved reaching back and helping others. Isaac had THE BEST PARENTS and learned his heart through them. He will FOREVER be MISSED, APPRECIATED, and ADORED by so many,” Freeman penned, adding, “He put me in front of the camera and I’ll forever be GRATEFUL and LOVE HIM. Thank you ALL SO MUCH!! Shanda.”
Fatman Scoop, real name Isaac Freeman III, was married to Freeman for 13 years before their divorce, as reported by People. The couple co-hosted the MTV podcast Man and Wife for one season, where they explored topics such as safe sex, loyalty, and relationship building. In a follow-post shared Saturday, Freeman fondly reminisced on the memorable experience she had working alongside Scoop on the show.
“We made history. We were the FIRST. I’m heartbroken. I love you. Always. Shanda,” she penned.
Fans poured into the comments section sending their condolences to Freeman while reflecting on the series’ impact.
One user penned, “My deepest condolences Shanda. I watched Man and Wife faithfully! I remember when I got my first iPod. It was the first video streaming I watched on the internet on it, and it brought me so much joy, I’m pretty sure I’ve watched every episode. I thank you both for keeping me entertained. He will be missed but never forgotten.”
Another netizen commented, “I loved this show to death. This was one of the first shows I ever saw on YouTube. At the end of the day, Scoop left a great legacy [and you’re] part of that Legacy.”
Fatman Scoop (R) and his ex-wife Shanda attend the Let’s Talk About Pep Season One Finale at comix on March 1, 2010 in New York City. Source: Johnny Nunez / Getty
Fatman Scoop was rushed to the hospital after collapsing during a concert performance.
According to TMZ, Fatman Scoop was performing at the Town Center Park in Hamden, Connecticut, on Friday, Aug. 30, when he tragically collapsed mid-performance. In a video obtained by the outlet, Freeman, who was shirtless, was seen moving from the front of the stage to a raised DJ booth. He was captured on camera saying into the microphone, “I said, Hamden make some noise!” before he fell behind the booth. Authorities were called to the scene for a medical emergency at 8:33 p.m., the outlet noted.
Shortly after the incident, Connecticut Mayor Lauren Garrett confirmed that the radio personality had experienced a medical emergency onstage.
“Tonight, while performing at Hamden Town Center Park, Isaac Freeman, aka Fatman Scoop, had a medical emergency on stage. He is being transported by ambulance to the hospital. We will provide updates when they are available. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”
Fatman Scoop’s death was later announced on his official Instagram page on Sept. 1.
“It is with profound sadness and very heavy hearts that we share news of the passing of the legendary and iconic Fatman Scoop,” the statement read. “Last night, the world lost a radiant soul, a beacon of light on stage and in life. Fatman Scoop was not just a world-class performer, he was a father, brother, uncle, and friend.”
Fatman Scoop was a prominent American rapper and DJ celebrated for his high-energy performances and distinctive voice. He rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits like “Be Faithful,” which became iconic in dance clubs around the world. Known as Mr. Do-it-All, a moniker he earned during his radio days with Hot 97, Scoop also expanded his career by growing his 42-market syndicated mix show, Full Throttle Radio, and launching a talk radio version of the show in fall 2015.
Previously, he had a popular column in The Source magazine called Scoopology and was recognized as the industry’s go-to hype man, getting crowds moving at parties for artists like 50 Cent, Missy Elliott and Ciara. Additionally, Scoop’s extensive credentials include recording music for blockbuster films like You Got Served and Save the Last Dance.
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