Len Goodman, Former Dancing With The Stars Head Judge, Passes Away At 78

Some sad news for Dancing With The Stars (DWTS) fans, long-serving judge for the show, Len Goodman, has passed away, according to his agent.

It’s been noted that he died “peacefully” on Saturday, April 22nd in the evening at a hospice care facility. He was 78 years old and was surrounded by family. He would have turned 79 this Tuesday, April 25th.

DWTS News: Len Goodman Was Battling An Illness

As per reports, Len Goodman had been fighting bone cancer before he passed away. He was a former professional dancer and British Champion. Len was best known as the head judge on DWTS.

He was with the series when it first debuted in 2005 and stuck with the show until his retirement in late 2022. He also acted as a judge on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing for 12 years, starting with the show when it debuted in 2004.

Bruno Tonioli, a former colleague of Goodman’s and DWTS judge posted a nice message on social media upon learning of Len’s passing, noting he’ll always treasure their memories and that his friend will always be his “perfect 10”.

Tim Davie, BBC Director-General states that Len was a “wonderful, warm entertainer” who was “adored by millions”. He also notes that Goodman “appealed to all ages” and was the “heart” of Strictly Come Dancing’s success.

DWTS News: Len Goodman’s Career Achievements

In addition to acting as a judge on two television programs and his dancing competition career, he also received the Carl Alan Award in recognition of outstanding dance contributions. Len also owned a dance school located in Southern England known as the Goodman Academy.

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 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/M5qnHedx5S

— Bruno Tonioli (@BrunoTonioli) April 24, 2023

Goodman is famous for his charming comments to dancers while he critiqued their performances on DWTS, and Esther Rantzen, a British broadcaster states that Len succeeded so much in the U.S. because he was “quintessentially British”; noting he was “firm but fair”, funny, but also a gentleman.

Goodman will be greatly missed by his family, friends, loved ones, and fans around the world. On behalf of everyone here at CTS, we offer our heartfelt condolences to those grieving this incredible loss.

Editorial credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com