Cousins! Please join us as we extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of ‘Cha Cha Slide’ creator DJ Casper following news of his passing!
According to reports from ABC News, DJ Casper’s wife Kim announced on Monday that he had passed away following his longtime battle with cancer. His family was said to be by his side as he transitioned.
The 58-year-old’s last interview was back in May as he reflected on the global influence he held through his legendary song “Cha Cha Slide.” From local gyms in his hometown of Chicago to parties, stadiums, and even overseas at the Olympics, DJ Casper created a feel-good record that everyone can enjoy forever.
“When I first did it, I did it as an aerobic exercise for my nephew at Bally’s,” Casper said. “From there, it just took off. Elroy Smith from WGCI grabbed ahold of it.”
While speaking with ABC News, DJ Casper also spoke candidly about his 2016 cancer diagnosis. “They diagnosed me in 2016 with two kinds of cancer, which is renal and Neuroendocrine, which is kidney and liver,” DJ Casper said.
“They went in to try to do surgery, and they found out the kidney was connected to the main artery, so they decided not to do it and just treat it.”
He added, “I used to weigh 236 pounds, and I think I’m about 60 pounds less. If you know me, you know I’m not going to stop. I’m going to continue to go. I’m going to continue to go until I can’t go.”
DJ Casper’s final message for anyone struggling,”Anybody that’s going through cancer, know that you have cancer and cancer does not have you. So, keep on doing the ‘Cha Cha Slide.'”