Sad news. Long-time Dancing With the Stars judge Len Goodman has died at age 78. He also sat on the Strictly Come Dancing panel, the OG UK show for years.
Len’s manager confirmed his death to the BBC on Monday that the judge and former ballroom dancer had been diagnosed with bone cancer and died on April 22 at a hospice in Kent, surrounded by his family.
“It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78,” said Len’s agent Jackie Gill in a statement. “A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
Len judged the popular BBC dance competition Strictly Come Dancing from its beginnings in 2004 through to 2016. He also served as a judge on the U.S version, Dancing With the Stars on ABC and Disney+, from its launch in 2005 through to 2022. He retired after the show’s 31st season completed in the fall of 2022.
He began dancing at age 19 and won a number of competitions. He retired as a professional in his late 20s. In the U.S., he judged Dancing with the Stars alongside Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba through most of the show’s seasons.
Bruno wrote on social media: “I will treasure the memories of our adventures there will never be anyone like you you will always be my perfect 10.”
BBC Director General Tim Davie called Goodman a “wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions.”
“Len was at the very heart of Strictly’s success,” he added. “He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family.”
Len’s fellow Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood wrote: “I’ve just woken up to the sad news that my gorgeous colleague and dear friend Len Goodman has passed away. My heart and love go out to his family.”
Len is survived by his wife, Sue Barrett and was also the owner of Goodman Dance Academy, a dance studio in the UK.
