Len Goodman, a legendary ballroom dancer and a judge on popular reality TV shows “Dancing with the Stars” and “Strictly Come Dancing,” passed away at age 78. According to his manager, Goodman died peacefully on April 22, surrounded by his family at a hospice in Kent, after being diagnosed with bone cancer.
Goodman’s agent, Jackie Gill, released a statement expressing deep sorrow over his death and paying tribute to the much-loved dance teacher. “A much-loved husband, father, and grandfather who family and friends will sorely miss, and all who knew him,” Gill said.
Goodman was a fixture on “Strictly Come Dancing” from the show’s inception in 2004 until 2016 and on the U.S. version, “Dancing With the Stars,” from 2005 through to 2022. Last year, he announced that Season 31 of “Dancing With the Stars” would be his final season, having spent 17 years with the program.
The British ballroom dancer earned respect on both sides of the Atlantic for his straightforward critique of contestants. Goodman was a fan favorite for his no-nonsense approach, but he was also known for his kind and complimentary feedback to the star performers.
Goodman was born in London in 1944 as Leonard Gordon Goodman, and he relocated with his family to Blackfen at a young age. Before pursuing dance, he worked as an apprentice welder. However, after suffering a foot injury, a doctor recommended dance as a form of therapy, which led to his career as a professional dancer. He won numerous competitions before retiring in his late 20s.
Goodman’s expertise and passion for dance made him an ideal candidate to serve as a judge on “Strictly Come Dancing” from the show’s inception. He served alongside Arlene Phillips, Craig Revel Horwood, and Bruno Tonioli, with whom he worked on “Dancing With the Stars” as well. He stepped down from his “Strictly Come Dancing” position in 2016.
Goodman became a household name in America when “Dancing With the Stars” debuted in 2005, and he judged alongside Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba. Despite retiring from the show last year, he remained a beloved figure for the program’s fans.
The BBC released a statement following Goodman’s death, with director general Tim Davie calling him a “wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions.” Davie praised Goodman’s appeal to all ages and his status as a beloved figure among the show’s fans.
Goodman was not only a judge but also a presenter. He hosted various programs, including “Partners in Rhyme,” “Holiday of My Lifetime with Len Goodman,” and “Dancing Cheek to Cheek: An Intimate History of Dance.” Goodman was treated for prostate cancer in 2009; in 2020, he revealed that he had undergone surgery for facial melanoma.
Goodman is survived by his wife, Sue Barrett, and a son from a previous relationship, James William Goodman. His death is a great loss to the dance world, and he will be deeply missed by his fans, friends, and family.