Len Goodman, a Strictly Come Dancing legend, died at age 78.
From 2004 to 2016, Goodman was the head judge on the BBC’s popular dance show.
The wonderful Len Goodman has left us. He was so kind and lovely to me when I was on @bbcstrictly and we met on other programmes including his own filmed at BBC Glasgow. The word legend is overused but Len and his 'SEVEN' became a catchphrase across UK & USA. A true character 7⃣ pic.twitter.com/3067E6PvxO
— Russell Grant (@THERussellGrant) April 24, 2023
He died quietly over the weekend at a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, surrounded by his family. He was suffering from bone cancer.
Goodman’s spokesperson confirmed the news to MailOnline: “I can confirm he died peacefully over the weekend surrounded by his family.”
RIP Len Goodman. His shouting of "Seven!" is now iconic. Definitely will go down as one of the best judges in Strictly history 🕺 #Strictly #Legend pic.twitter.com/6I1XcTtO0G
— David Patterson (@DPatz13) April 24, 2023
The Director-General of the BBC Tim Davie paid tribute to the star: “Len was at the very heart of Strictly’s success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family.”
Goodman was also a judge on the American talent show Dancing with the Stars from 2005 to November 2022, when he announced his intention to resign to spend more time with his grandchildren and his wife, Sue.
Len Goodman
When he was nineteen years old, a doctor recommended that he start dancing as a form of therapy for a foot injury. Goodman’s dancing career took off from there, and by the time he was in his late twenties, he had won the British Championships in Blackpool.
Very sad news about this legend one of my favourite judges on Strictly rest in peace Len Goodman I will really miss you 😢 Xx pic.twitter.com/8zxpE9mJKN
— I Met ShaneFilan💜💙 (@MissKittenFilan) April 24, 2023
Fans have been devastated by the news of Goodman’s death.
One fan wrote: “How very sad that the lovely Len Goodman has passed away aged 78. Spent so much time with him when I was younger learning to dance. Was always the kindest man. RIP X”
Another said: “RIP Len Goodman this is a shock he was the man we all thought was indestructible met him several times he said he would personally give me some dance lessons if I ever got Strictly really sad.”
While a third wrote: “So sad to hear that Len Goodman has passed away loved him on strictly come dancing. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time. Don’t forget to keep dancing up there.”
Rest in peace, Len Goodman.
