Len Goodman has passed away at the age of 78.
Best known for his role as a judge on “Dancing With the Stars,” Goodman was a beloved figure in the world of ballroom dancing and television. The English dancer, who appeared as a judge on the hit ballroom competition show from 2005 to 2018, died on Saturday at a hospice in Kent, southern England. Goodman had been battling bone cancer for some time.
His passing was confirmed by his manager, Jackie Gill, who shared the news with CNN on Monday, mentioning that Goodman was surrounded by family at the time of his death.
Len Goodman was a key figure on “Dancing With the Stars,” alongside fellow judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli. He was known for his sharp wit, knowledge of dance, and warm demeanor that made him a fan favorite. Goodman’s role as a judge on the American version of the show was only one part of his illustrious career in dance and television.
Born in London in 1944, Goodman’s passion for dancing didn’t begin until he was 19 years old. According to his official website, he quickly rose to prominence as a professional dancer before transitioning to a career in television. His natural charisma and deep understanding of ballroom dance made him the perfect fit for the judging panel of “Strictly Come Dancing,” the British equivalent of “Dancing With the Stars.” Goodman served as the head judge on “Strictly Come Dancing” from the show’s inception in 2004 until his departure in 2016. His final appearance on the show aired during the Christmas special that year, marking the end of an era. After his departure, Shirley Ballas took over his role on the show.
Tributes to Len Goodman have poured in from fans, colleagues, and celebrities alike. BBC director-general Tim Davie led the tributes, calling Goodman “a wonderful, warm entertainer who was loved by millions.” Davie went on to say, “He was adored by people of all ages and made everyone feel like they were part of his extended family. Len was the heart of ‘Strictly’ and a huge reason for its success. He will be sorely missed by the public, his friends, his family, and all who knew him.”
Bruno Tonioli, Goodman’s longtime colleague and fellow judge on both “Dancing With the Stars” and “Strictly Come Dancing,” shared a touching tribute on social media. Tonioli posted a photo of himself holding hands with Goodman, accompanied by a heartfelt message. “Heartbroken, my dear friend and partner for 19 years, the one and only ballroom LEGEND #LenGoodman passed away,” Tonioli wrote. “I will treasure the memories of our adventures @bbcstrictly @officialdwts. There will never be anyone like you. You will always be my perfect 10.”
In addition to his television career, Len Goodman was also a dedicated dance instructor. He ran the Goodman Dance Academy in Kent, where he taught ballroom dancing to students of all ages. His passion for dance extended beyond the studio, as he also penned several books. His autobiography, Better Late Than Never: From Barrow Boy to Ballroom, was published in 2009, offering readers a glimpse into his life and career. Goodman also authored Dancing Around Britain and Lost London, further showcasing his love for dance and history.
Len Goodman’s contributions to the world of dance and entertainment were immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of dancers and fans alike. His warmth, charm, and expertise made him a beloved figure on television screens around the world, and he will be remembered fondly by all who had the pleasure of watching him.
