Len Goodman has died at the age of 78.
He was a judge on “Dancing With the Stars.”
The English dancer, who competed in the ballroom competition from 2005 to 2018, died on Saturday in a hospice in Kent, southern England. He had been sick with bone cancer for a long time.
There were many family members around him, Goodman’s manager, Jackie Gill, told CNN on Monday.
Along with Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, Len Goodman is a judge on “Dancing With the Stars.”Disney General Entertainment Content/Getty Images / Adam Taylor
He was born in London in 1944. His website says he started dancing when he was 19 years old and was a professional dancer before he went into TV.
Goodman was the head judge on the British version of Dancing With The Stars, BBC’s “Strictly Come Dancing,” from the show’s start in 2004 until its last episode on Christmas Day 2016. Instead, Shirley Ballas filled in for him after he left.
The tributes were led by BBC director-general Tim Davie, who called Goodman a “wonderful, warm entertainer who was loved by millions.”
Davie also said, “He was liked by people of all ages and made everyone feel like he was part of their family.” Len was the main reason why Strictly was so popular. The public, his many friends and family, and himself will all miss him very much.
Bruno Tonioli, another judge on “Dancing With The Stars,” posted a touching picture of himself and Goodman holding hands and wrote, “Hart broken my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom LEGEND #LenGoodman 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.”
Outside of TV, Goodman ran the Goodman Dance Academy in Kent, which was a dance school. His autobiography, “Better Late Than Never: From Barrow Boy to Ballroom,” came out in 2009. He also wrote “Dancing Around Britain” and “Lost London.”
Len Goodman’s legacy in the world of dance extends far beyond his time on television. A beloved figure in both the UK and the US, Goodman was known for his charm, humor, and passion for ballroom dancing. His impact on the dance community and the entertainment world was immeasurable, and his presence on Dancing With the Stars and Strictly Come Dancing helped bring ballroom dancing into the mainstream, making it accessible and entertaining for millions of viewers.
Len’s journey to becoming a renowned dance judge was not without challenges. Born in London in 1944, he was raised in a working-class family and initially pursued a career as a welder. It wasn’t until the age of 19, after a doctor recommended dancing to help recover from a foot injury, that Goodman discovered his passion for ballroom. He quickly excelled, earning numerous awards and accolades in the dance world, including winning the British Championships in his late 20s.
After his competitive career, Goodman transitioned to television, where his expertise, wit, and warm personality made him an instant hit. As the head judge on Strictly Come Dancing and later on Dancing With the Stars, he became known for his fair but firm critiques, his infectious enthusiasm, and his signature catchphrase, “It’s a ten from Len!” His presence on both shows was a key factor in their success, and his connection with audiences made him a beloved figure on both sides of the Atlantic.
Fellow judges and colleagues have expressed their deep sadness and admiration for Goodman. Carrie Ann Inaba, who worked alongside Goodman on Dancing With the Stars, shared an emotional tribute on social media, calling him “a true gentleman” and “a mentor who taught me so much about dance and life.” She added, “Len’s spirit and passion were unmatched, and his legacy will live on in every dancer he inspired.”
Fans of Dancing With the Stars and Strictly Come Dancing also flooded social media with tributes, sharing their favorite moments and memories of Goodman’s time on the shows. Many highlighted his ability to make even the most nervous of contestants feel at ease and his genuine love for the art of dance. Viewers cherished his heartfelt and often humorous critiques, which became a staple of the shows and endeared him to millions.
Beyond the dance floor, Len Goodman was a devoted teacher and mentor. He ran the Goodman Dance Academy in Kent, where he nurtured young talent and passed on his love for ballroom dance. Many of his former students have gone on to achieve success in the dance world, and they credit Goodman for his unwavering support and encouragement.
Goodman’s influence extended into other aspects of his life. In addition to his work on television, he was a published author and a lover of history, especially his beloved London. His autobiography, Better Late Than Never: From Barrow Boy to Ballroom, offered an intimate look into his life and career, while his books Dancing Around Britain and Lost London showcased his passion for exploring and preserving the cultural heritage of the UK.
His passing leaves a void in the entertainment and dance communities, but his legacy will endure through the many dancers he inspired, the audiences he entertained, and the colleagues who admired him. Shirley Ballas, who succeeded Goodman as head judge on Strictly Come Dancing, expressed her condolences, calling him “a true legend and an irreplaceable part of the dance world.” She continued, “Len’s love for dance and his kind, generous spirit touched so many lives. He was a mentor to me and a dear friend—I will miss him greatly.”
Len Goodman’s warmth, wit, and expertise made him a household name, and his impact on the world of dance will be felt for generations to come. His family, friends, and the countless dancers and viewers he inspired will continue to celebrate his life, remembering him as the “perfect 10” he truly was.