Tayt Andersen: What really happened to Ellen DeGeneres’ beloved “only boyfriend”

The world of daytime television lost one of its most cherished young faces this week. Tayt Andersen, the spirited teen who playfully claimed Ellen DeGeneres as his “girlfriend” and affectionately became known as her “only boyfriend,” has passed away at the age of 19.

Andersen, who was born with half a heart, captured national attention after appearing multiple times on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. His bravery, humor, and unshakable positivity brought light into millions of homes, even as he endured a lifetime of medical challenges.

A Life of Courage and Connection

Tayt’s medical journey began at birth. By the age of nine, he had undergone 12 surgeries. At 10, he received a lifesaving heart transplant that briefly gave him new strength. But his health struggles were far from over. In his teens, he was diagnosed with post-transplant lymphoma. In 2024, further heartbreak arrived when doctors discovered he had bladder cancer. By the summer of 2025, the illness had spread aggressively, and Tayt was given only a few months to live.

Despite those battles, Tayt remained a source of joy for his family and fans. His mother, Chrissy Becker, revealed how deeply he adored Ellen’s show—even insisting doctors’ visits never interfere with broadcast time. Nurses and family members often sat with him through episodes, which became his comfort during endless hospital stays.

Ellen’s Tribute

Following news of his passing on Friday, September 26, DeGeneres, now 67, posted an emotional video tribute.

“We had a very special guest on the show several times, and his name was Tayt,” she recalled. “He thought I was his girlfriend, so I told him he was my boyfriend. He was such a special little human being—he just filled every room with laughter and love. I will miss him.”

Her message was followed by a montage of memorable moments between her and Tayt, including a heartwarming episode in 2015 when he proudly announced, “I got myself a new heart!”

 

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Family’s Farewell

Andersen’s family confirmed his death in a heartfelt Instagram post. “Our hearts are shattered as we share the news we never wanted to write,” they wrote. “Tayt was released from his bodily prison early this morning, surrounded by the fierce love of his family. No more pain. No more appointments. No more treatments.”

They described his final hours as peaceful. On the day before his death, loved ones gathered for FaceTime calls, said their goodbyes, and spent time reading his favorite books and watching his favorite movies. His family also made a keepsake handprint to hold onto.

“Tayt was loved by so many, and he impacted countless lives with his incredible smile, his quiet strength, and his kindness,” the post continued. “Though our souls feel broken, we are grateful for every moment we shared with our amazing boy.”

A Lasting Legacy

While Tayt’s life was far too short, his story remains a testament to courage in the face of hardship. From a little boy with half a heart to a young man who inspired millions, Tayt Andersen’s memory will live on—in his family’s love, in Ellen’s heartfelt tribute, and in the many lives he touched with his laughter and light.

FAQs 

Who was Tayt Andersen?
Tayt Andersen was a longtime fan of Ellen DeGeneres who became a beloved guest on The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Born with half a heart, he underwent multiple surgeries, received a heart transplant, and later battled cancer.

Why did Ellen DeGeneres call Tayt Andersen her “only boyfriend”?
Ellen jokingly gave him the title after Tayt, as a young boy, told her he considered her his girlfriend. The playful moment became a running theme throughout his appearances on the show.

How old was Tayt Andersen when he died?
He was 19 years old at the time of his passing in September 2025.

What illness did Tayt Andersen battle?
Tayt was born with a congenital heart condition and later received a heart transplant. In his late teens, he was diagnosed with bladder cancer, which eventually spread.

How did Ellen DeGeneres react to Tayt Andersen’s death?
Ellen shared a heartfelt video tribute on Instagram, describing him as a “very special little human being” who filled every room with joy, laughter, and love.