Len Goodman Dies Peacefully at 78 After Bone Cancer Battle
Len Goodman, the iconic Strictly Come Dancing head judge, passed away peacefully on Saturday at a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. He was 78 and was surrounded by his family. Goodman had been battling bone cancer.
Strictly Legend and US Dancing Star
Goodman was a Strictly staple from the very first series in 2004 until 2016. Fans adored his sharp wit and warm, avuncular style. He wasn’t just a UK favourite — he also dazzled audiences on the US version, Dancing With the Stars, from 2005 right through to his retirement in 2022.
He made his final Strictly appearance in the 2016 Christmas special before stepping back to spend more time with his grandchildren and family in the UK.
Tributes Pour In for a “Wonderful, Warm Entertainer”
“It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78,” said his manager Jackie Gill on Monday. “He was a much-loved husband, father, and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
Craig Revel Horwood, Strictly’s longest-serving judge, honoured Goodman as a “gorgeous colleague and dear friend” on social media.
BBC Director-General Tim Davie praised him as “a wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions,” adding, “Len appealed to people of all ages and felt like a member of everyone’s family. He was central to Strictly’s success.”
Fans and Celebs Mourn a True Legend
Russell Grant, former Strictly contestant, tweeted, “The wonderful Len Goodman has left us. The term ‘legend’ is overused but Len and his ‘SEVEN’ became a catchphrase in the UK and US. A real character.”
Boxing star Frank Bruno expressed his shock, writing, “RIP Len Goodman. He was the man we all thought was indestructible. I met him several times; he even promised me dance lessons if I ever got Strictly. Truly sad.”
Goodman was a decorated figure in the dance world, winning the Carl Alan Award for distinguished services to dance and running the Goodman Academy, a dance school in Dartford, Kent.
