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Topics: Strictly Come Dancing
Anish Vij
Topics: Strictly Come Dancing
Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman has died aged 78 from bone cancer.
Goodman was residing in a hospice in Tunbridge Wells in Kent before he passed away on Saturday (22 April).
Agent Jackie Gill said in a statement: “It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78.
“A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
The Strictly judge - who appeared on the show from 2004 to 2016 - was eventually replaced by Shirley Ballas but remained very popular with fans.
Paying tribute on social media, one person wrote: "Not a Strictly fan, but didn’t Len Goodman always have the best smile. Happy chap all round. RIP."
Another added: "Sad to hear #LenGoodman has passed away. A king of dance. Thoughts to his family and friends at this time."
"First paul o grady now len goodman. 2023 u suck," someone else said.
Goodman, who began dancing at 19, retired from the profession in his late twenties after winning the British Championships in Blackpool.
In 2005 he joined the American version Dancing with the Stars, as head judge, until 2022.
The TV host announced his departure from the show last year, telling fans: "This will be my last season judging Dancing With the Stars.
"I've been on the show since it started in 2005, and it has been a huge pleasure to be a part of such a wonderful show but I've decided I want to spend more time with my grandchildren and family back in Britain."
Goodman also hosted a show called Holiday of My Lifetime where he takes celebrities back to special holiday locations from their youth.
He also a recipient of the Carl Alan Award in recognition of outstanding contributions to dance.
As well as his successful dancing and television career, he is the owner of the Goodman Dance Academy, a dance school in Dartford, Kent.
Taking to social media, Piers Morgan tweeted: "More very sad news from the world of entertainment…
"RIP Len Goodman, 78 - welder, dancer, judge, and devoted cricket & West Ham fan. Always had a laugh with Len, and swapped a few strong opinions. A quintessential Londoner and a top bloke."
Dan Walker added: "So sad to hear about the death of Len Goodman.
"He was an incredible man & an extraordinary talent.
"Loved making telly with him, being daft with him, playing golf with him & will never forget the little tips he would send every week on Strictly.
"All my love to his family."