Len Goodman, the beloved judge from Dancing With the Stars, has passed away at the age of 78.

The renowned English dancer, who was a staple in the ballroom world, died peacefully in a hospice in Kent, Southern England, after a prolonged battle with bone cancer. His manager, Jackie Gill, confirmed the news, stating that Goodman was surrounded by family during his final moments. His passing marks the end of an era for many fans of ballroom dancing and television.

Goodman’s career spanned decades, but he is perhaps best known for his role as a judge on both the American show Dancing With the Stars and its British counterpart Strictly Come Dancing. He began his judging career on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing when the show first aired in 2004, continuing until his final appearance on the Christmas episode in 2016. His warm presence and sharp critiques made him a fan favorite, and his departure left a significant void. After his exit, Shirley Ballas took over his role as head judge.

Born in London in 1944, Goodman discovered his passion for dance later in life, at the age of 19. He quickly transitioned from an enthusiastic student to a professional ballroom dancer, eventually moving into the world of television. His natural charisma and deep knowledge of dance made him a perfect fit for the small screen, where he gained international recognition. His website notes that before his television career, he had already established himself as a skilled and competitive dancer.

The news of his passing has elicited tributes from across the entertainment world, including from BBC’s director-general Tim Davie, who described Goodman as a “wonderful, warm entertainer who was loved by millions.” Davie emphasized Goodman’s ability to connect with audiences of all ages, stating, “He was adored by people from all walks of life and had an incredible ability to make everyone feel like part of the family.” Goodman’s contributions were a key factor in Strictly Come Dancing’s immense popularity, and he will be sorely missed by fans, friends, and family alike.

Bruno Tonioli, a fellow judge on both Dancing With the Stars and Strictly Come Dancing, shared an emotional tribute to his longtime colleague. Posting a touching photo of the two holding hands, Tonioli wrote, “Heartbroken, my dear friend and partner for 19 years. The one and only ballroom legend #LenGoodman has passed away. I will treasure the memories of our adventures @bbcstrictly @officialdwts. There will never be anyone like you. You will always be my perfect 10.” The sentiment was echoed by many in the entertainment and dance communities, with Goodman being remembered not only for his expertise but also for his warmth and sense of humor.

Beyond his television career, Goodman was deeply involved in the dance world. He owned and operated the Goodman Dance Academy in Kent, where he trained aspiring dancers. His love for the art form extended into writing as well, with his autobiography Better Late Than Never: From Barrow Boy to Ballroom published in 2009. Additionally, he authored other works such as Dancing Around Britain and Lost London, further solidifying his legacy as both a dancer and a storyteller.

Len Goodman’s death leaves a lasting impact on the world of ballroom dancing and television. His talent, charm, and ability to connect with people across generations ensured that he would be remembered fondly by millions. As the tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Goodman’s legacy will endure for years to come.