Culture
Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss: “So You Think You Can Dance” Alum & Former ‘Ellen’ DJ Dies at 40
This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also call the network, previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources.
The unfortunate news confirming Stephen’s passing was released today on all major news outlets. A representative for Boss told NBC News he died by suicide.
Stephen “tWitch” Boss, is known as the popular “So You Think You Can Dance” alum and as the former DJ for “Ellen DeGeneres Show”. The official news was reported by his wife, fellow dancer Allison Holker Boss. She confirmed the news with the following statement to CNN:
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to share my husband Stephen has left us,” Holker Boss said in a statement. “Stephen lit up every room he stepped into. He valued family, friends and community above all else and leading with love and light was everything to him. He was the backbone of our family, the best husband and father, and an inspiration to his fans.”
“To say he left a legacy would be an understatement, and his positive impact will continue to be felt,” she added. “I am certain there won’t be a day that goes by that we won’t honor his memory. We ask for privacy during this difficult time for myself and especially for our three children.”
No further information was provided regarding the cause of his death. Stephen was only 40 years old.
Holker Boss concluded her statement to CNN by saying “Stephen, we love you, we miss you, and I will always save the last dance for you.”
The couple celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary just days ago.
His final instagram post was a ‘shared posted’ released by his wife Allison on Monday showing the two of them dancing in front of the Christmas tree. His wife’s message under the post read “HOLIDAY SUNDAY FUNDAY DANCE!! With my lover @sir_twitch_alot.”
This beautiful pair met when they were all-star dancers on Season 7 of “So You Think You Can Dance” in 2010.
“We shared a dance at the wrap party of that season of ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ and we have been together ever since,” Boss told People in February.
“There was no dialogue, there was no conversation or a first hangout. Literally, we danced and we were together holding hands the very next day,” Holker Boss added. “And we never looked back.”
Most Recent Work
After leaving the Ellen show in 2020 where he had recently been promoted as the co-producer of the show, ‘tWitch’ returned to “So You Think You Can Dance”. In February of 2022, he and his wife announced the launch of the new Athleisure line “Fly” with Dicks Sporting Goods where they served as the new brand ambassadors.
Most recently, ‘tWitch’ and Allison both appeared with major roles in the new Disney film “The Hip Hop Nutcracker” which released on Nov 25th, 2022.
Responses started to flood social media Wednesday morning from celebrities and fans:
“I’m heartbroken,” wrote Ellen DeGeneres on Instagram alongside a photo of the pair hugging. “tWitch was pure love and light. He was my family, and I loved him with all my heart. I will miss him. Please send your love and support to Allison and his beautiful children — Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia.”
Ciara –
“I am so crushed to hear the news that you are no longer with us. I’ve always known you as joy, laughter, good times and a big smile! Heaven has gained an angel today! May you rest in paradise. Praying for your family during this difficult time. (see full tweet)
Viola Davis –
“I’m at a loss for words right now, praying for his family and loved ones.” (see full tweet)
Valentin –
“This is not possible. I am absolutely lost for any words or comprehension. Heartbreaking.” (see full tweet)
Mickey Guyton –
“You just never truly know what anyone is going through. Check on your loved ones. Always be good to people. Man this one hurts.” (see full tweet)
Yvette Nicole Brown –
“What is going on?! This news has broken my heart. I’ve loved him since #SYTYCD. He was always so joyful & full of life. Always. Oh tWich!
If you are feeling despair PLEASE call 988. #PleaseStay” (see full tweet)
Kirk Franklin –
“My heartfelt condolences to Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss’s family… beautiful children, beautiful wife. It’s really heartbreaking…” (see his full message here)
The responses continue to flood social media after the release of this news. Please join the ArtSoul Radio family as we continue to keep the family, friends and loved ones of tWitch in prayer during this difficult time.