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Strictly Come Dancing legend Len Goodman has died at the age of seventy-eight.
Goodman previously served as a head judge on BBC’s iconic dance show from 2004 to 2016.
He died peacefully at a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, over the weekend while surrounded by his family. He had bone cancer.
Goodman’s spokesperson confirmed the news to MailOnline: “I can confirm he died peacefully over the weekend surrounded by his family.”
The Director-General of the BBC Tim Davie paid tribute to the star: “Len was at the very heart of Strictly’s success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family.”
Goodman also acted as a judge on the American talent show Dancing with the Stars from 2005 until November 2022, when he announced that he was planning to retire in order to spend more time with his grandchildren and his wife, Sue.
The star first began dancing when he was nineteen years old after a doctor recommended it as a way of therapy for a foot injury at the time. From there, Goodman’s dance career flourished, and he went on to win the British Championships at Blackpool by the time he was in his late twenties.
Fans have responded to the news of Goodman’s death with heartbreak.
One fan wrote: “How very sad that the lovely Len Goodman has passed away aged 78. Spent so much time with him when I was younger learning to dance. Was always the kindest man. RIP X”
Another said: “RIP Len Goodman this is a shock he was the man we all thought was indestructible met him several times he said he would personally give me some dance lessons if I ever got Strictly really sad.”
While a third wrote: “So sad to hear that Len Goodman has passed away loved him on strictly come dancing. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time. Don’t forget to keep dancing up there.”
Rest in peace, Len Goodman.
