Len Goodman, a longtime judge on Dancing with the Stars and Strictly Come Dancing, has passed away. He was 78.
Jackie Gill reports that Goodman “passed away peacefully” on Saturday night”.
“Len passed away on Saturday night while being cared for by his family in a hospice in Kent. Cancer of the bone was the cause. His management reportedly told Good Morning America on Monday that he was a “true gentleman” who kept his sense of humor despite being ill.
After serving for 31 seasons as the show’s head judge, Goodman stepped down from his position in November 2022.
He said, having been a part of the show since it began in 2005, “It has been an enormous joy for me to be a part of such a magnificent performance.
He also expressed his joy at having more time to spend with his family “back in Britain”.
Many people credit the former professional ballroom dancer and British champion with rekindling interest in the sport on both sides of the Atlantic.
He served as the show’s head judge after Strictly Come Dancing’s 2004 BBC debut for 12 seasons before switching to the US version, DWTS, where he remained until his retirement in November 2022.
Upon hearing of his passing, a large number of individuals connected to each dancing competition expressed their condolences.
Goodman was referred to as “A Dancer” by Carrie Ann Inaba, “a different judge. ”. a teacher who is both a good person and a good storyteller. a soul with personality. a true help. a man of the home. a close friend as well. ”.
I found it difficult to say goodbye after the previous season. But the news of today ruined it beyond repair. I can’t believe you left, you know.”.
Len Goodman, a judge on “Dancing with the Stars,” passed away at the age of 78.
Professional dancer Kym Johnson-Herjavec lamented the loss of a “class act,” dancing on the program from 2006 to 2015”.
Today the heavens’ gates have been adorned with ten paddles and ten mirror balls. It always made you feel better to hear Len give you a ten. He had a sly smile and was a courteous gentleman. We truly miss you. Len, kindly go away now”.
Former DWTS host Tom Bergeron gave a brief but heartfelt tribute to Goodman.
A good man without a doubt.
Director-general of the BBC Tim Davie praised Goodman to millions of viewers as “a wonderful, warm entertainer.”. Because of his likeability, which he possessed, people of all ages thought that their families should adopt him. Len was the inspiration for Strictly, which led to its success. Both the general public and his countless friends and family will terribly miss him.
May you rest in peace, Len. We value each and every memory.
