Danny Tidwell, a finalist on “So You Think You Can Dance,” died on Friday in a car accident, according to his brother, fellow dancer Travis Wall. Tidwell was 35
Wall announced the news in an Instagram post on Saturday morning.
“Yesterday I lost a brother. And we all lost a gift. I’m not ready. But I never think I will be. Because I can’t believe this is real. I can’t believe you’re gone. You were more than my brother. You were my inspiration. I idolized you growing up. Wanted to dance just like you. Wanted to be you! I wish I could jump in your arms again like we used to when we were kids and onstage dancing,” Wall posted.
Tidwell competed in the third season of “So You Think You Can Dance” in 2007 and finished as the runner-up. Originally from Norfolk, Va., he was 22 during the competition and danced contemporary style. His brother danced in the previous season and also came in second place.
Debbie Allen, a judge on Tidwell’s season, called him a “dancing genius” and a “prince among paupers” in a tribute to him on Twitter.
Danny Tidwell our beautiful
dancing genius “Prince amongst Paupers” you are in God’s Ensemble. We will always speak your name with love and respect. See you on the other side. 😢🙏🏽💕 Love, Mama D pic.twitter.com/74XJqJcagS— Debbie Allen (@msdebbieallen) March 7, 2020
“So You Think You Can Dance” co-creator and judge Nigel Lythgoe shared his condolences on Twitter.
We have lost one of the most brilliant dancers we have ever had on SYTYCD. God bless you Danny Tidwell. May your talent shine as brightly in Heaven as it did on Earth. RIP
— Nigel Lythgoe OBE (@dizzyfeet) March 7, 2020
Comfort Fedoke, a top eight contestant on the fourth season of the dance series, remembered Tidwell and shared a video of one of his performances on Instagram.
