Ellen DeGeneres, Paula Abdul, among celebrities remembering Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss’ ‘shining talent’

LOS ANGELES — Stephen “tWitch” Boss, known as a dancer and a DJ on the popular television shows “So You Think You Can Dance” and the “Ellen DeGeneres Show,” has died at age 40.

>> Read more trending news

In the hours after Boss’ death was confirmed by his wife, celebrities took to social media to remember the talented performer.

Ellen DeGeneres, the host of the show where Boss performed as DJ, said Wednesday on Instagram: “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.”

Actor Alyssa Milano shared a video of Boss performing a dance with Kherington Payne to “Dreaming with a Broken Heart” by John Mayer, with the simple words, “RIP TWITCH. Damn.”

Paula Abdul, who was a judge on “So You Think You Can Dance,” remembered Boss on Twitter, saying, “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.”

On Instagram, musician Questlove said, “I have no words man. May his family find resolution in this tough time. May we all find peace of mind In our everyday lives. Everyday is a winding road & you just may never know who is on the edge. … Rest in Melody Twitch.”

Actor Mira Sorvino revealed on Twitter that she heard the news from her son, saying, “I am so sad — his joyful talent lit up our hearts from the time my kids were small. Hold your loved ones dear!! This life is not promised to anyone.”

Even those who never met Boss were quick to remember his talent.

Actor Jason Alexander, known for the role of George Costanza on “Seinfeld,” said on Twitter: “I am so sad at the loss of Stephen ‘Twitch’ Boss. Never met but his smile, his persona and his shining talent always brought me joy. My sympathy to his loved ones. I wish you and him peace.”

Jada Pinkett Smith posted on Instagram, “I woke up this morning to the news that tWitch is gone. … We had a lot of good times on the set of ‘Magic Mike.’ He was so sweet, kind and generous. So many people suffer in silence. I wish he could have known that he didn’t have to. May his beautiful, shining soul rest in the arms of the Great Supreme and may that same Higher Power heal the shattered hearts of his loved ones.”

Actor Julie Bowen remembered Boss for his work both on the “Ellen DeGeneres Show” and appearances on “Modern Family,” saying, “I did ‘Ellen’ a gajillion times, and every time this sweet man made me smile, laugh and dance (horribly…always horribly). He even came and did a guest spot on ‘Modern Family,’ and it was like getting a visit from the sun. His lightness, joy and kindness filled every room he entered. It’s terrible to think he was suffering inside. Tell somebody you love them today.”

Note: If you, or someone you know, is thinking of harming themselves, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free support via the Lifeline by dialing 988. For more about risk factors and warning signs, visit the organization’s official website.

ExpandAutoplay

Image 1 of 16

Stephen ‘tWitch Boss’ through the years LOS ANGELES, CA - AUGUST 04: Stephen "tWitch" Boss attends the 4moms Car Seat launch event at Petersen Automotive Museum on August 4, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Tommaso Boddi/Getty Images for 4moms) (Tommaso Boddi)

©2022 Cox Media Group