Stephen “tWitch” Boss, the beloved DJ featured for nine years on The Ellen DeGeneres Show has died at 40.
The Hollywood Reporter confirmed that the dancer, choreographer, actor and producer died by suicide.
Boss, who got his big break on So You Think You Can Dance, met his wife Allison Holker Boss on the reality show.
“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,” said Holker Boss shared following the news of her husband’s death.
“To say he left a legacy would be an understatement, and his positive impact will continue to be felt. I am certain there won’t be a day that goes by that we won’t honor his memory.”
DeGeneres shared a statement on Instagram writing, “I’m heartbroken. 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.”
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The late star rose to fame after competing on seasons 3 and 4 of So You Think You Can Dance. Boss joined The Ellen DeGeneres Show as Ellen DeGeneres’ in-house DJ in 2014, eventually becoming a breakout star on the series, and a co-executive producer in 2020.
He has also appeared in dancer roles on the big screen, including in Magic Mike XXL and several Step Up films, and has made appearances in series such as Modern Family.
More stars took to social media to honor tWitch following the news of his death.
I’m devastated to hear the news about Stephen “tWitch” Boss’ passing. tWitch greeted the world every day with a beautiful smile that was a direct reflection of his beautiful heart. He was a beacon of light & a true talent whose legacy & impact will live on in the dance community pic.twitter.com/UlUV7VmvCi
— Paula Abdul (@PaulaAbdul) December 14, 2022
The world lost a bright light today. Twitch brought joy and love to people all over the world through music and through dance. My heart is heavy today for his family and all of those who knew and loved him. pic.twitter.com/VmvxFgOF5d
— kerry washington (@kerrywashington) December 14, 2022
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