It is with heavy hearts that we must announce the heartbreaking passing of Stephen Boss, also known as tWitch, at the age of 40. Despite his jubilant and upbeat personality filled with life and joy, Allison Holker-Boss confirmed in an exclusive statement to People magazine that her husband has taken his own life. We remember him for all he has brought into this world: positivity, cheerfulness, fun—and most importantly love.
She went on to say: “Stephen always brightened up any room he entered. Above all else, his enthusiasm for family, friends and community was inspiring; a cornerstone of his drive came from utmost optimism and love. He will forever be our rock, an extraordinary husband and father that left an indelible legacy with his admirers worldwide. We kindly ask for privacy while we grieve this terribly difficult time as a family – especially our three children.”
Finishing her soliloquy, Alison delivered a farewell to her husband: “Stephen, you are and will always be beloved. We miss you deeply; no matter the time or distance, I promise to save for you our last dance.”
Disclosure of the cause of death
The Los Angeles medical examiner’s office publically disclosed the autopsy report of “tWitch”, revealing that his death had been a suicide via a gunshot wound to the head. Upon arriving at the hotel room, authorities discovered Boss’ body and unfortunately no further details were released.
It’s heartbreaking to hear that someone who brought so much joy to a room, was hurting so much behind closed doors. I’ve known Twitch for over 20 years through the dance community – he always lit everything up. You just never know what someone is really going through.
— Justin Timberlake (@jtimberlake) December 14, 2022
Stephen Boss’s rise to fame
tWitch became a household name when he competed on MTV’s The Wade Robson Project and later as runner-up of Star Search. His talent took him to the fourth season of So You Think You Can Dance in 2008 where he again finished second, though returned for All-Star episodes afterward. He got his chance at judging when the show came back in 2022.
I was just crying a few months ago seeing Twitch’s last episode on Ellen, watching it today again is surreal
— SOUND (@itsavibe) December 14, 2022
RIP Stephen “tWitch” Boss who died from a self inflicted gunshot today at 40 years old pic.twitter.com/AUN3t85NCM
In 2014, Boss added The Ellen DeGeneres Show to his repertoire by joining as a guest DJ. After proving himself worthy, he was soon elevated to become an executive producer for the series in 2020. As if that wasn’t enough, he also co-hosted Fairy Tale Weddings with Alison and has made appearances on popular films like Magic Mike XXL, Modern Family and Step Up All In.
Stephen has been the host of various reality shows, including the FOX show The Real Dirty Dancing earlier this year. He and Alison teamed up for Disney’s production to create a top-notch experience.
FOX Entertainment, 19 Entertainment and Dick Clark Productions issued the following statement: “It is difficult to express in words how much we will miss Steven Boos, tWitch. His extraordinary talent was matched only by his radiant spirit which brought so much joy into our lives. We are deeply saddened at this heartbreaking loss and share your grief alongside that of his family and fans.”
