Paul Roberts, who brought unforgettable choreography to One Direction, Harry Styles, Steps, and Sir Paul McCartney, has passed away at 52 following a courageous fight with cancer. His partner Phil Griffin said Roberts spent his final moments at home, surrounded by loved ones.
“On the evening of 26th September 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer, Paul passed away gently at home, surrounded by his family. His departure, much like his life, was filled with grace,” Griffin shared in an emotional statement.
Stars and colleagues quickly honored Roberts’ memory. Strictly star Layton Williams wrote, “One of the kindest, most beautiful souls. Was an honour to know and have worked for you Paul. Sleep well beautiful man.” Steps’ Ian “H” Watkins called him an “incredible human,” while singer Kimberley Walsh remembered him as “very special indeed.”
Harry Styles Collaboration & One Direction Legacy
Roberts’ influence reached a global audience through his work with One Direction. He staged some of the band’s most beloved videos, including “Best Song Ever,” “Steal My Girl,” and “Kiss You.”
He also choreographed Harry Styles’ “Treat People With Kindness” music video, which earned a VMA in 2021 for Best Choreography.
Reflecting on his time with the group, Roberts once told the BBC, “It was always really interesting working with One Direction. I knew very early on that there was a magic about them… In personal moments you got to see them flourish.”
Remembered by Stars Across Music & Dance
Tributes extended far beyond his One Direction family. As per Daily Mail, Sam Smith, who collaborated with Roberts on the 2018 “The Thrill of It All” tour, said, “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.”
Spice Girl Emma Bunton shared, “My heart is broken. Being in his company was my happy place. Thinking of you @thephilgriffin sending love to you and all his family.”
Louis Tomlinson’s sister, Lottie Tomlinson, also honored him with a broken heart emoji on Instagram.
A Lasting Legacy in Choreography
Across more than two decades, Roberts collaborated with some of music’s brightest names, from Katy Perry’s “Unconditionally” to performances with Annie Lennox, Mariah Carey, Gloria Estefan, Bon Jovi, and Sir Paul McCartney.
He trained at London’s Urdang Academy before spending five years as staging director for One Direction, elevating their concerts with choreography that thrilled fans worldwide. Friends and colleagues remembered him as a visionary artist whose kindness matched his talent.
Roberts’ creative spirit will continue to inspire generations of performers and fans.
