Beloved ‘Ellen’ show DJ Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss has died

TW: This article mentions suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm, call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Stephen “tWitch” Boss, the DJ who inspired millions to get up and dance while watching The Ellen DeGeneres Show, is dead at the age of 40. Outlets including TMZ report the cause of death is suicide. His wife, Allison Holker Boss, confirmed reports of his passing with a statement on Wednesday morning.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to share my husband Stephen has left us,” Holker Boss says in the statement obtained by NBC News. “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.”

Boss was a longtime collaborator with Ellen DeGeneres, serving as on the DJ on her show from 2014 until the daytime talk show concluded its run earlier this year. He was an executive producer from 2020 onward. He was also known for acting roles in films including those in the “Step Up” franchise, “Hairspray” and “Magic Mike XXL.” Along with his wife, he hosted Disney Fairy Tale Weddings from 2017 to 2020.

But, as Holker Boss says in her statement, being a father was among his most cherished roles.

“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 3 children,” says Holker Boss. “Stephen, we love you, we miss you, and I will always save the last dance for you.”

The couple shares three children and marked their ninth wedding anniversary just last weekend. Together, Boss and Holker Boss have millions of fans on social media who loved following their dance videos.

As tributes begin to pour in for Boss, it’s clear that his legacy is one of love, joy and laughter. Sadly, as this is also a reminder, those expressions can also mask pain. If you or someone you know is struggling, the strongest thing anyone can do it reach out for help.