Len Goodman, ex Dance with the Stars The judge is dead, his manager confirmed on Monday. He was 78 years old.
The London-born former professional ballroom dancer died Saturday in a nursing home in Kent, in the south of England. He had been diagnosed with bone cancer, according to the BBC. “We are deeply saddened to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully,” his manager Jackie Gill said on Monday.
“He is a much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by his family, friends and everyone who knew him,” Gill added.
After initially joining DWTS Goodman announced his retirement from the show in November for its 2005 premiere season. When she announced on the broadcast her plans to spend more time with her family at her home in England, she received a standing ovation and described her time on the show as “what a wonderful experience”. Less than six months later, his death comes just days before his 79th birthday.
He had also served as the presiding judge on the British version of the TV show. Definitely Come DanceFrom 2004 until her last appearance on the 2016 Christmas Day special.
Before her glittering television career, Goodman started dancing when a 19-year-old doctor recommended she try ballroom for foot injury treatment. She danced professionally for less than a decade before opening her own dance school and refereeing competitions – including her British Championship win.
“I have just woken up to the sad news that my wonderful colleague and dear friend Len Goodman has passed away,” said Goodman’s colleague. Definitely Come Dance Judge Craig Revel Horwood tweeted on Monday. “My heart and my love goes to her lover [wife] Sue and her family. I used to always call him Len Goody Goodman and “a ten from Len & seveeeeern” will live with me forever. RIP Len.”
“Len Goodman was a wonderful, warm entertainer admired by millions,” said Tim Davie, Director-General of the BBC. “He appealed to people of all ages and he felt like a member of everyone’s family. Len was right in your heart Definitely success. The public will be greatly missed by many of their friends and family.”