Len Goodman, the former head judge of the popular ballroom dancing competition ‘Strictly Come Dancing,’ has passed away at the age of 78. He died on Saturday at a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, after battling bone cancer. Goodman was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.
Goodman was well loved among fans and contestants of the show for his charm and dry sense of humor. He served as the head judge of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ from its launch in 2004 until 2016. In addition to his work on the show, he appeared as a judge on its US counterpart, ‘Dancing With the Stars,’ from 2005 to 2022.
Goodman’s manager, Jackie Gill, released a statement announcing his passing: “It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78. A much-loved husband, father, and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.”
Goodman began his career in dance at the age of 19 and quickly became a professional dancer, winning various competitions shortly after. He retired after winning the British Championships at Blackpool in his late twenties.
Goodman’s passing has been met with an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow members of the dance community. BBC Director-General Tim Davie called Goodman a “wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions” and said that he “felt like a member of everyone’s family.” Fellow ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ judge Craig Revel Horwood credited Goodman as his “gorgeous colleague and dear friend” and said that memories of him would “live with [him] forever.”
Goodman’s passing is a sad loss for the dance world, but his legacy as a beloved judge and accomplished dancer will continue to be remembered and celebrated by those who knew him.