A confrontation marred the funeral of former “So You Think You Can Dance” star Joshua Allen last weekend, prompting his girlfriend, Dy’Zetta Brown, to share her perspective on the incident. According to Brown, she was invited to the service by Allen’s family before an altercation occurred, involving a woman she identifies as Allen’s aunt.
The incident unfolded as Brown paid her last respects to Allen, who passed away on September 8, 2023, after being struck by a train. In a widely circulated video, Brown is seen placing a note on Allen’s chest and kissing him goodbye when she was allegedly grabbed from behind by the aunt. Brown claims that tensions escalated following a previous police visit to the funeral, where family members informed officers of a restraining order that had been in place against Allen for a period.
Despite the earlier police intervention, Brown stated she was not removed from the service. After allowing family members some private time with Allen, she returned to the open casket. Brown confirmed that the restraining order had been issued due to past mental health issues involving Allen. She expressed her frustration regarding the legal system’s response to their situation, stating, “I had no control over that decision. I repeatedly told police I didn’t want Joshua in jail—I just wanted him to get help.”
The emergency protective order was effective from July until September 22, 2023. Brown explained that the order stemmed from incidents during their relationship, which lasted nearly four years. Contrary to rumors circulating online, she clarified that they were still together at the time of his death, with the funeral on November 8 marking their first anniversary of living together.
In her heartfelt remarks, Brown described Allen as the love of her life, stating they often discussed plans for marriage, children, and future travels. She added, “Even when he was away, he made it clear he wanted to come back home. We were still in communication. He wanted to work on things. I loved him—and I believe he was trying.”
Brown, along with Allen’s father, Eddie Powell, indicated that Allen had long struggled with mental health issues prior to his death. She recounted her attempts to seek help for him, recalling moments of intense attachment, jealousy, and paranoia that raised her concerns. She reached out to family, friends, and law enforcement, hoping to obtain support for Allen rather than having him arrested.
Three days before his death, Brown contacted Allen’s probation officer, expressing her fears for his well-being. Her plea for assistance was met with a suggestion to collect evidence for a potential return to incarceration, which she felt underscored the system’s failure to address Allen’s mental health needs.
While reflecting on Allen’s legacy, Brown described him as a “kind” and “talented” individual with much to offer. She has attempted to reach out to Allen’s maternal family for comments regarding the funeral incident but has not received a response.
Joshua Allen gained fame after winning the fourth season of “So You Think You Can Dance” in 2008, where he competed against notable contestants, including the late Stephen “tWitch” Boss. He also appeared in the films Step Up 3D (2010) and the 2011 remake of Footloose. He was 36 years old at the time of his death.
