The Dancing World Mourns Death Of Len Goodman
Dancing with the Stars and Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman died on Saturday (April 22) at the age of 78. According to Goodman’s manager, Jackie Gill, he was fighting bone cancer at the time of his death.
Gill told BBC:
“It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78. A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
Len Goodman, Former 'Dancing with the Stars' Head Judge, Dead at 78 https://t.co/xJNaZomh3e
— People (@people) April 24, 2023
Goodman judged most of DWTS‘ 31 seasons. He announced his retirement last year during Season 31.
Len’s Colleagues Share Their Grief On Social Media
Len’s DWTS colleagues shared their grief in emotional posts on social media. Former host Tom Bergeron shared a photo collage and said, “A Good Man, indeed.”
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Goodman’s fellow judges, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, also reacted to the news.
“Saying goodbye at the end of last season broke my heart. But today’s news has shattered it all over again. I can’t believe that you’re gone,” Inaba said.
Tonioli remarked, “I will treasure the memory of our incredible adventures and hundreds of shows we did together…”
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DWTS also released their own statement, saying:
“Len Goodman will always be an icon in the world of ballroom dance, and we were lucky to have him as part of our ‘Dancing with the Stars’ family…“
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Julianne Hough Joins In Mourning Over Len’s Death
Julianne Hough has worked with Len in many capacities over the years. She first met him when she was only ten years old and competing as a dancer in London.
Since then, Hough has served as a pro and a judge on DWTS. It was just recently announced she’ll be serving as one of the show’s co-hosts this year.
In other words, Hough has spent a lot of time with Goodman over the course of her life. So she was understandably devastated when she learned about his death.
Hough shared tons of photos taken of her and Goodman together through the years. In a lengthy and emotional caption, she wrote:
“From the time we met when I was 10 years old competing in London, to my first time on DWTS and feeling at home because of your familiar face. To the many 7’s (SeVUUUHN) that turned in to my first ever 10 I received from you. To all the rules I broke on the dance floor that you were stern about but then would see me back stage and tell me you loved it. To then have sat by your side as a judge, rather partner, for so many years creating so many inside jokes and memories was and will be a sacred part of my life that I’ll always cherish.”
Hough said Len’s “wisdom, playfulness, and class” touched everyone he worked with, and he had an impact on them all. “What an honor it has been to have been a part of your wonderful life. You’re a legend and left a beautiful legacy. I love you forever,” she said.
You can read Hough’s full post below. Our hearts break for her and for all who knew and loved Goodman.