Tayt Anderson, known for his appearances on The Ellen DeGeneres Show, has passed away at 19 after a lifelong battle with illness. Born with only half a heart, doctors once said he wouldn’t live past three months. By age 10, he received a heart transplant, which led to later complications, including lymphoma. In 2024, Tayt was diagnosed with bladder cancer, which spread quickly. Doctors gave him four months to live in 2025—he made it three.

His family shared: “While our souls feel shattered and lost, we are so thankful that Tayt is finally free. No more pain, no more appointments, no more treatments. Tayt was loved by so many, and he impacted countless lives with his incredible smile, his quiet strength, and his kindness.”

Tayt first appeared on Ellen’s show in 2013 at age seven, calling her his “girlfriend.” Ellen fondly called him her “only boyfriend.” The show lifted his spirits during long hospital stays, and he returned several times, including after his transplant. He carried Dory’s mantra: “Just keep swimming.”

Ellen honored him with a video tribute: “He was a very special little human being… And I will miss him.”

Tayt’s legacy is one of resilience, joy, and love.