Celebrities from all around Hollywood are sharing their opinions in the wake of Stephen “tWitch” Boss’ tragic passing. When he was 40 years old, he committed suicide.
In a sad statement she shared with PEOPLE on Wednesday, Allison Holker Boss, the former Ellen DeGeneres Show DJ’s wife, confirmed the news.
Allison, 34, responded to a question about her spouse by saying, “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to reveal my husband Stephen has left us.” “Every room Stephen entered was lit. He treasured his community, family, and friends beyond all else. He believed that leading in love and light was the best way to do it. He served as the foundation of our family, was the perfect husband and father, and served as an example to his followers. It would be an understatement to suggest that he has left a legacy and that his positive influence will endure. There won’t be a day that goes by that we don’t think of him, I’m sure of it.
The So You Think You Can Dance judge’s passing was announced, and Hollywood’s A-listers immediately shared their sorrow.
Creator and SYTYCD judge Nigel Lythgoe released a statement to PEOPLE in which he expressed his shock and devastation. He said he was “heartbroken and devastated” and was “at a loss to understand how someone as loved and inspirational to so many people as Stephen was can feel they are in such a dark place that they have no other choice but to end their life.”
Part of what he said was, “With Twitch, it is beyond my comprehension.” He was pleased and had a wide smile all the time. Everyone he came into contact with adored him. Today will be difficult for the dance world, but my thoughts are with his wife Allison and their kids. We must acknowledge that mental illness has a major impact on our loved ones and frequently goes undiagnosed. While this is a joyful time of year for many of us, we must be aware that for other people, worry and negative emotions seem to be heightened.
Tiffany Maher, a separate SYTYCD alumna, told PEOPLE in a different statement: “My heart is crushed. Stephen “Twitch” is a good example. He was very motivating and friendly. I’m overjoyed to have met him. He won’t ever be forgotten or overlooked. We are sending our love and prayers to Allison and the kids.
Fox Entertainment, 19 Entertainment, and Dick Clark Productions—the production companies behind SYTYCD—told PEOPLE that they would never forget Stephen “tWitch” Boss for the happiness and light he brought into their lives and the lives of so many others. Together with his family, loved ones, and admirers, we mourn the passing of such a magnificent, unquestionable talent, and dear friend. We will all miss you, “tWitch.”
Dr. Tommie Tonea Stewart, Boss’ mentor, also informed PEOPLE via email that he had passed away. Today saw the passing of a talented man with a vast fan base of fans and lovers. Stephen soon made everyone he came into contact with happier with his contagious and sincere smile. Even though we are saddened by his passing, Stephen’s warmth and enthusiasm will always be cherished for his contributions to the arts and in our hearts.
On social media, condolences flooded in as well. In response to the devastating news, Ellen DeGeneres tweeted a sentimental message and a picture of the couple hugging.
“I’m stunned. tWitch was nothing but happiness and love.She shared something on Instagram.He was my family, therefore the only thing I could give him was love. He will be missed. Please send Allison and his three adorable kids, Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia, your love and support.
Former First Lady of the United States and frequent visitor to the Ellen show Michelle Obama posted a picture of Boss’s family on Instagram along 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 courageous individual who made sure that the warmth and hope he exuded were felt by everyone in his vicinity. Every dance, DJ set, and artistic endeavor he did had a strong sense of his spirit. She stated, “My deepest sympathies go out to his wife Allison and their three children, Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia. And please remember that you are never alone if you’re struggling and need someone to talk to. Someone is always willing to lend a hand. Dial 988 to reach the crisis and suicide hotline via phone or text.
On Instagram, Jennifer Lopez posted several images of herself and Boss, with whom she collaborated on the World of Dance. “Twitch has such a beautiful and vibrant soul. both horribly shocked and depressed. @sir twitch much is sending you love and support along with his wife and children.