Stars from all corners of Hollywood are speaking out after the sudden death of Stephen “tWitch” Boss. He died by suicide at age 40.
The former Ellen DeGeneres Show DJ’s wife, Allison Holker Boss, shared an emotional statement with PEOPLE on the matter.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have to share my husband Stephen has left us,” Allison, 34, said of the So You Think You Can Dance judge. “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.”
Tributes poured out across social media as well. Katie Couric wrote how “this is so, so sad.”
“Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss, the beloved DJ and producer on the Ellen DeGeneres Show and dancer who rose to fame on So You Think You Can Dance, has died from suicide,” she continued on Instagram. “He was 40 years old.”
Sharing PEOPLE’s post on Boss’ passing, Viola Davis said on Instagram: “I’m at a loss for words right now, praying for his family and loved ones. 💔🕊🙏🏿.”
“The world lost a bright light today,” Kerry Washington tweeted. “Twitch brought joy and love to people all over the world through music and through dance. My heart is heavy today for his family and all of those who knew and loved him.”
Washington continued in a second tweet, “You never know what people are struggling with or going through. Hug your loved ones. Call your friends. Reach out to people in need. And if you or someone you know is in a crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK. ❤️.”
As Loni Love tweeted videos of the two dancing together at his 40th birthday party, she noted what “a kind soul and a sweet person” Boss was.
“My heart goes out to his family especially Allison and their beautiful kids,” she continued. “This is devastating … I love you brother and will miss you dearly.”
Ciara uploaded a video of the pair dancing together on The Ellen DeGeneres Show set, writing: “I am so crushed to hear the news that you are no longer with us.”
“I’ve always known you as joy, laughter, good times, and a big smile! Heaven has gained an angel today,” she wrote. “May you rest in paradise. Praying for your family during this difficult time ❤️
Posting a video of them dancing together, Snoop Dogg wrote: “R. I. P. Twitch. Save a dance for me 😢🌹🙏🏾”