Len Goodman, the beloved long-time head judge of Dancing with the Stars, has passed away at the age of 78.

Goodman, who had been diagnosed with bone cancer, died on Saturday at a hospice in Kent, England.

His manager, Jackie Gill, released a statement on the beloved TV star’s passing early Monday morning: “It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78. A much-beloved husband, father, and grandfather, who will be sorely missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.”

Goodman, a former professional dancer, was on Dancing with the Stars from 2005 to 2022. He was also a head judge on the British version of the show, Strictly Come Dancing, from 2004 to 2016.

Bruno Tonioli, a fellow judge on DWTS, posted a heartfelt tribute to his friend after the news broke:

“Hart [sic] broken my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom LEGEND #LenGoodman passed away I will treasure the memories of our adventures @bbcstrictly @officialdwts there will never be anyone like you you will always be my perfect 10”

Carrie Ann Inaba, another co-judge on DWTS, posted an emotional video on Instagram in honor of Goodman, writing, “You were one of a kind my dear friend. And I will cherish our memories and hold them close, while I join so many others in mourning your loss. Thank you for all that you shared with us. Your humor, your wisdom, your wit and your truth. Until we meet again… Rest In Peace Len”.

 

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BBC shared a statement from Director-General Tim Davie on Twitter honoring Goodman. He said, “Len Goodman was a wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions. He appealed to all ages and felt like a member of everyone’s family. Len was at the very heart of Strictly’s success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family.”

 

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