Len Goodman, the esteemed English dancer and judge, passed away on Saturday in a hospice in Kent, southern England, following a prolonged battle with bone cancer. He was surrounded by family at the time of his passing, according to his manager, Jackie Gill, who shared the news with CNN on Monday.

Goodman, born in London in 1944, began dancing at the age of 19 and enjoyed a successful career as a professional dancer before transitioning to television. He served as the head judge on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing from its inception in 2004 until his departure in 2016. Shirley Ballas succeeded him on the show. Goodman was also a beloved judge on the American version, Dancing With the Stars, alongside Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli.

David Davie reflected on Goodman’s immense impact, stating, “He was loved by people of all ages and made everyone feel like part of his family. Len was the heart of Strictly’s success.” His passing leaves a void deeply felt by his family, friends, and fans worldwide.

Len Goodman, the beloved icon of Dancing With the Stars, has left a lasting impact on the dance world and his passing has left a void that will be difficult to fill. His career as a professional dancer and later as a judge on both Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing With the Stars has made him a household name and a cherished figure in the hearts of many.

Born in London in 1944, Goodman’s passion for dance led him to a successful career that spanned decades. From his early days as a dancer to his role as a judge on two of the most popular dance competition shows in the world, Goodman’s talent and charisma always shone through. His presence on the judging panel was not only entertaining but also insightful, as he provided valuable feedback and encouragement to countless contestants over the years.

Goodman’s manager, Jackie Gill, shared the heartbreaking news of his passing, revealing that he had been battling bone cancer for some time. Surrounded by his family in a hospice in Kent, Goodman’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched during his career.

David Davie, a close friend of Goodman, spoke of his immense impact on the dance community, stating that he was a beloved figure who made everyone feel like part of his family. The outpouring of love and support from fans around the world is a testament to the impact Goodman had on so many lives.

As we mourn the loss of a true dance legend, we remember Len Goodman for his passion, talent, and unwavering dedication to the art of dance. His memory will live on through the countless performances he judged and the lives he inspired. Rest in peace, Len Goodman. You will be deeply missed.