JLS backing dancer and performer Jack Pointer Mackenzie has tragically died at the age of 35.
But who was the dancer? Here’s what we know.
Who was 'original JLS member' Jack Pointer Mackenzie?
Jack Pointer Mackenzie was a London-based dancer, choreographer, and filmmaker.
Born in 1988, Jack began dancing at 13 and was into gymnastics in his youth.
Jack, who danced with JLS throughout the band's career, was described by Aston Merrygold as an "original JLS team member".
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His website states that he had a vast amount of knowledge across genres including jazz, contemporary, street dance, hip-hop, and acrobatics.
Alongside dancing and choreography, Jack taught urban and funk dance classes at London’s famous Pineapple Studios.
Jack died in September 2023. His cause of death is currently not known.
Jack’s sister, Rosa Pointer, wrote on Instagram: “I’ll miss you so much, but I’ll see you everywhere.”
Posting a picture of the pair together as children she paid tribute saying: "For my beautiful brother Jack,
"I don’t want to address you in the past tense because I can still feel you dancing all around us.
"The sunshine you radiate, your booming fearlessness and your captivating creativity I think is just too big for this world."
She shared a donation page “in honour of Jack’s memory.”
When did Jack Pointer Mackenzie work for JLS and who else did he work for?
Jack worked as a backing dancer, touring with the band JLS throughout their career from The X Factor until their 2021 tour.
The pro dancer worked with many big names throughout his career, including Camila Cabello, Justin Bieber, and Hozier.
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Jack also danced for Alesha Dixon, Beverley Knight, and Cher Lloyd.
At the opening ceremony for the London 2012 Olympics, Jack was one of around 80 dancers to be chosen to represent the UK’s musical legacy.
As a filmmaker, Jack worked with international brands Adidas and Paco Rabanne as the leading camera operator on their new campaigns.
What have JLS members said about his death?
Aston Merrygold, a member of JLS, took to Instagram to pay tribute to the talented dancer, who had worked with the band for so many years.
On his Instagram story, Aston wrote “RIP Captain”, and “Original JLS team member!”
He added: “Captain Jack always with the vibe from 2009 and beyond!”
Base Dance Studios, owned by Aston, shared a tribute post on Instagram, alongside a photo of Jack, which read: "A unique gift, who shall be sorely missed.
"Thank you for sharing your talent with us.”
Fans wrote their condolences under the post.
One wrote: “A beautiful dancer, teacher and human.”
Another said: "A huge loss for the community. Love to his closest, and dearest. Fly High Jack."
JLS formed in 2007 and shot to fame in 2008 after placing second, behind Alexandra Burke, in the fifth series of The X Factor.