Joshua Allen, So You Think You Can Dance Winner, Dies at 36 in Tragic Accident
- Oct 2
- 1 min read
1 October 2025
Joshua Allen, the Season 4 champion of So You Think You Can Dance, has died at age 36 after being struck by a train, according to his family. The Los Angeles–born dancer met sudden tragedy on Tuesday, September 30, and was transported to hospital, where he later passed away.
Allen first became a household name when he won the FOX dance competition in 2008 at just 18 years old, edging out Stephen “tWitch” Boss in the final. Over the years he branched into film and television with roles in Step Up 3D, the Footloose remake, and appearances on shows like American Horror Story.
In a tribute shared by choreographer and friend Emmanuel Hurd, Allen was remembered as “the life of the party” and “a real King,” someone who kept it honest and authentic. Hurd spoke of solace in envisioning Allen reunited with “Stephen now,” referencing the late SYTYCD alum who passed in 2022.
Allen’s final post on Instagram, dated July 21, paid tribute to actor Malcolm-Jamal Warner, who died earlier that year. The caption read, “Fly high King.” His family has asked for privacy and prayers during this difficult time.
While the cause of death has not yet been publicly confirmed, initial reports and family statements point to the train accident as the fatal incident. Allen’s legacy stands not only in his accolades but in the warm spirit he brought to dance, his drive to grow technically, and the emotional candor he shared with fans.
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