Former judge of “Dancing with the Stars,” Len Goodman, died Saturday at the age of 78 after a short battle with bone cancer.
Goodman died in a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, and was surrounded by family at the time of his passing, according to the BBC. Goodman was a former professional ballroom dancer and also served as the head judge on “Strictly Come Dancing,” from its launch in 2004 until the last episode in 2016, BBC reported. His death was confirmed by his manager, Jackie Gill, Monday.
Former Strictly Come Dancing head judge Len Goodman has sadly died. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this tough time. 🧡 pic.twitter.com/N4FcZWw2CT
— BBC Radio 2 (@BBCRadio2) April 24, 2023
Gill described Goodman as “a much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him,” according to the BBC.
Goodman appeared on “Dancing with the Stars” from 2005 until 2022 and was known for his humor and critical commentary. He is remembered as a judge that enthusiastically congratulated contestants and awarded them a score of seven points, which became his infamous catchphrase.
Fellow judge Craig Revel Horwood spoke of Goodman’s best qualities and described him as a “gorgeous colleague and dear friend,” according to the BBC.
“Len Goody Goodman is what I always called him and ‘It’s a ten from Len & seveeeeern’ will live with me forever,” he added, in a nod to his catchphrase and vivid personality.
The host of “Strictly Come Dancing,” Claudia Winkleman, told described Goodman as “a class act”.
“There was nobody like him because he was so humble,” she said. “He was adorable – on camera, off camera, and to everybody who took part,” Winkleman said, according to BBC.
‘DWTS’ Judge Len Goodman Dead at 78 after Cancer Battle https://t.co/CNgA8CDm4t
— TMZ (@TMZ) April 24, 2023
Goodman was a welder in his earlier years, and retired from his career to become a teacher and choreographer. He eventually opened his own dance school called the Goodman Academy. (RELATED: REPORT: Aaron Carter’s Former Fiance Pushes For Second Autopsy)
The famous judge was passionate about music and was a regular stand-in for the late Paul O’Grady on his BBC Radio 2 show, according to BBC.
He is survived by his son James, his wife, and dance teacher Sue Barrett.