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Joshua Allen, the season four winner of So You Think You Can Dance, has died at the age of 36 after being struck by a train in Fort Worth, Texas.
Allen's family confirmed his passing to TMZ, sharing that he was hit in the early hours of Tuesday, September 30, and later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. They asked fans for "privacy and prayers" as they grieve the devastating loss. Police in Fort Worth confirmed a fatal train strike around 1 a.m., though investigations are still ongoing.
The dancer, who rose to fame in 2008 when he won the Fox competition series, was remembered by friends and colleagues as a gifted performer and loyal companion. Choreographer Emmanuel Hurd paid tribute in an emotional Instagram post, writing, "Can't wrap my head around this...Josh...my brotha. There are no words. One of the realest people I ever met. Kept it a stack every time and would make it right if you fell short. A real King. This one hurts deep." He added that Allen is "with Stephen now and that brings me comfort," referring to the late Stephen "tWitch" Boss, Allen's close friend and fellow contestant who died in 2022.
Allen, a Fort Worth native, discovered dance after years of balancing athletics with the arts. He took classes in ballet and modern dance to strengthen his technique before auditioning for So You Think You Can Dance. His energy and versatility won over both the judges and audiences, securing him the $250,000 grand prize in 2008.
Despite professional success, Allen faced personal struggles. In 2016, he was arrested on domestic violence charges in Los Angeles, later serving time and undergoing court-ordered counseling.
Singer and YouTuber Todrick Hall also mourned Allen, writing, "My heart is shattered to hear that my dear friend Joshua Allen has sadly passed away. My condolences and support going out to his family !! You will be missed !!"
