We have some devastating news coming out of Tinseltown. Former “Dancing With The Stars” judge and ballroom dancer Len Goodman passed away just days before his 79th birthday.
Goodman’s manager, Jackie Gills, confirmed the heartbreaking news to BBC Monday morning and shared that he had bone cancer. Gills said Goodman died on Saturday at his home in Kent, England, surrounded by his family.
“A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
At the age of 19, Mr. Goodman began dancing, winning various competitions, including the British Championships in Blackpool in his late 20s, after which he retired.
Goodman is best remembered as a judge on the British television dance contest in which celebrities partnered with professional dancers called `Strictly Come Dancing.’ “SCD” launched in 2004 and ran until 2016. Goodman became popular with viewers for his humor and critiques. Next, he served as head judge on Dancing With The Stars from 2005 to 2022.
“Dancing With The Stars” judges, Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough paid tribute to the choreographer and dancing coach legend.
Inaba posted a tribute video with kind words about her friend. “A Dancer. A teacher. A refined gentleman. A wonderful storyteller. A special soul. A mentor. A family man. And… A treasured friend.”
Tonioli honored Goodman’s memories on Instagram stating “…I will treasure the memory of our incredible adventures and hundreds of shows we did together.” He added, “…they will never be anyone like you we will miss you.”
“It’s a gloomy morning here in Los Angeles which seems fitting after this heart breaking news,” Hough stated in his post. “But when I think back at the memories we all shared with Len, his sense of humor, his smile and charm everything feels much brighter and full of sunshine.”
Goodman leaves behind one son, James Goodman, and his wife, dance teacher Sue Barrett. This is a huge loss in the world of dancing. Sending prayers to his family and loved ones.
