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.
The news of Len Goodman’s passing has left the dance community and fans of ‘Dancing With the Stars’ in mourning. With heavy hearts, we say goodbye to an iconic figure who brought joy and passion to the dance world.
Len Goodman’s legacy as a dancer, judge, and television personality will forever be remembered. His expertise and wit made him a beloved figure on both ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ and ‘Dancing With the Stars.’ His presence on the judging panel brought a unique blend of humor, critique, and charm that endeared him to audiences around the world.
As we reflect on Goodman’s life and career, we remember the impact he had on the dance industry. His dedication to the art of dance and his commitment to sharing his knowledge with others made him a true legend. Whether he was offering constructive criticism or sharing a heartfelt moment with a contestant, Goodman’s presence was always felt and appreciated.
Goodman’s passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment we have with our loved ones. His family, friends, and fans are left to mourn his loss, but his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched throughout his career.
In this time of sadness, let us come together to celebrate the life and legacy of Len Goodman. His spirit will continue to inspire dancers and fans for generations to come. Rest in peace, Len Goodman. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.💔💔
Please share your memories and condolences in the comments below as we honor the life of this dance icon.👇👇