Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss was honored by friends, family and colleagues at an emotional celebration of life held on Saturday in Los Angeles. The service drew a wide circle of people who came to remember his talent, generosity and the joy he brought to others.
Wife Allison Holker and the couple’s children welcomed guests and guided the afternoon ceremony, offering a warm, intimate setting for tributes from close friends and performers who had worked with or been inspired by him.
Speakers included long-time friend and mentor Ellen DeGeneres, as well as comedian Loni Love and actor Wayne Brady, each sharing memories that highlighted tWitch’s humor, kindness and creative spirit.
The gathering also included many faces from the dance and entertainment communities: Derek Hough, Wade Robson, AJ McLean, Robin Antin, members of the So You Think You Can Dance cast and crew, and the entire Ellen DeGeneres Show team. Their presence underscored the broad reach of his impact across television, live performance and pop culture.
Debbie Allen introduced a video tribute, and Jeff Thacker—who officiated Stephen and Allison’s 2013 wedding—presented a special clip reflecting on their life together. Musical performances were part of the afternoon as well: country artist Mickey Guyton and singer Andy Grammer delivered moving songs, while choreographers and dancers paid tribute through performance. Dance tributes included pieces by Bdash (James Derrick), Slavik Pustovoytov and Ceasare “Tighteyex” Willis, each honoring tWitch’s legacy as a groundbreaking performer and mentor.
Throughout the service, stories emphasized how Stephen uplifted people both on and off stage. Allison and their daughter Weslie, 14, each spoke about the deep personal role Stephen played as a husband and father. Allison described him as “the light,” saying he chose love, grace and kindness and that his life deserves celebration.
The Boss family have started a foundation in tWitch’s honor
To continue Stephen’s work and values, Allison and the family have launched the Move with Kindness Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to preserve his legacy by promoting kindness and raising awareness about mental health, carrying forward the compassion and positivity for which he was known.
Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss died at 40 on Dec. 13. His passing was ruled a suicide, and he left a note alluding to past struggles. The news shocked fans and colleagues worldwide and prompted renewed conversations about mental health in the entertainment industry.
Before his death, tWitch enjoyed a prolific career across dance, television and film. He rose to fame on So You Think You Can Dance, finishing season 4 as the runner-up in 2008 and later returning as an all-star mentor and partner for subsequent contestants. In 2022 he served on the show’s judges panel, further cementing his influence in the dance community.
In 2013 he appeared on Dancing with the Stars, and in 2014 he joined The Ellen DeGeneres Show as DJ, eventually becoming an executive producer. He branched into hosting and acting as well—hosting E! Entertainment’s competition series Clash of the Cover Bands in 2021, appearing in the film Magic Mike XXL, and co-hosting the documentary series Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings in 2017 alongside Allison Holker.
At the celebration, colleagues and friends repeatedly noted his generosity, his commitment to lifting others and the joyful energy he brought into every room. The Move with Kindness Foundation aims to honor those qualities by supporting mental health initiatives and encouraging acts of compassion—an effort that reflects the spirit of the man many called tWitch.
As friends, family and fans continue to mourn his loss, the service provided a space for remembrance, gratitude and the sharing of stories that showcased both his professional accomplishments and his personal warmth. The legacy Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss leaves behind is one of creativity, mentorship and an enduring message to choose kindness.