Following the unexpected death of Stephen “tWitch” Boss, celebrities from all around Hollywood have expressed their feelings. He killed himself at the age of 40.
Allison Holker Boss, the former Ellen DeGeneres Show DJ’s wife, revealed the news in an emotional message on Wednesday.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to tell you that my spouse Stephen has left us,” Allison, 34, said of her husband. “ Stephen infused light into every environment he inhabited. He cherished his family, friends, and community beyond all else.
He believed leading with love and light was the greatest way to lead. He was the rock of our family, the best husband and father, and a role model for his followers.
To say he left a legacy is an understatement, and his positive influence will continue. There won’t be a day that we don’t remember him. I’m confident of that.”
As word of the So You Think You Can Dance judge’s death surfaced, Hollywood’s A-listers expressed their grief.
Nigel Lythgoe, the show’s creator, and judge, said he was “heartbroken and horrified,” adding that he was “at a loss to understand how someone as adored and inspirational to so many people as Stephen was can feel they are in such a dark place that they have no other choice than to take their life.”
“With Twitch, it is inexplicable to me,” he remarked. “He was always cheerful and had a big smile on his face. He was adored by everyone he met. The dance community will be mourning today, but my heart goes to his wife Allison, and their children.
It is vital to recognize that mental illness is a severe problem that can go unnoticed by our loved ones. While this is a happy time of year for many of us, tension and bad feelings appear to be amplified in other people.”
Tiffany Maher, another SYTYCD graduate, told PEOPLE, “My heart is destroyed. Stephen “Twitch” was a standout. He was warm and motivating. I’m grateful I met him. He will be missed and remembered forever. Allison and their children have our love and prayers.”
“Because of the happiness and joy that Stephen “tWitch” Boss brought into our lives and the lives of so many others, we will never forget him,” the firms behind SYTYCD said in a statement to PEOPLE. We join his family, loved ones, and fans in mourning the untimely death of such a great, undeniable talent and close friend. “You will be sadly missed, ‘tWitch.”
Dr. Tommie Tonea Stewart, Boss’ mentor, also issued a message mourning his loss. “Today, a talented man with a decent heart and a slew of fans and loves who adored him died. Stephen’s contagious and genuine smile quickly delighted anybody who came into contact with him. Although we are devastated by Stephen’s death, his kindness and energy will live on in the arts and our hearts.”
Condolences were also shared on social media. Ellen DeGeneres responded to the devastating news with a beautiful message and a photo of the couple hugging.
“I’m gutted. “There was nothing but pure light and love.” She shared a photo on Instagram. “I could only give him love since he was my family. He will be remembered. Please extend your love and support to Allison and his three beautiful children, Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia.”
Michelle Obama, the former First Lady of the United States, who frequently appeared on the Ellen show, posted an Instagram photo of Boss’ family with the caption, “I was heartbroken to learn about the passing of Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss, who I got to know over the years through my Let’s Move! Initiative and visits to The Ellen Show.”
“Stephen was a dynamic individual who ensured everyone in his vicinity felt the compassion and happiness he emanated. Every dance, DJ set, and a creative endeavor he created was infused with his spirit.
“My heartfelt condolences to his wife, Allison, and their three children, Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia,” she continued. “And please know that you are never alone if you are in pain and need someone to talk to. There is always someone wanting to help. To contact the suicide and crisis hotline by phone or text, dial 988.”
Jennifer Lopez shared numerous photographs on Instagram with Boss, with whom she worked in the World of Dance. “Twitch has such a beautiful soul. Stunned and heartbroken. “I’m sending you love and strength, @sir twitch alot, his wife, and their kids,” she wrote.
