Devastating news is coming from the Dancing With the Stars family.
During the early morning hours of April 24, it was shared with the public that Len Goodman passed away. He was 78 years old.
Len Goodman was a judge on the show since its premiere in 2005. He left the show after 17 years in 2022.
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Goodman announced he would be leaving the show in November. “It has been a huge pleasure to be a part of such a wonderful show,” he said in his statement. “But I’ve decided I’d like to spend more time with my grandchildren and family back in Britain. I could not thank you enough, my ‘Dancing With The Stars’ family, it’s been such a wonderful experience for me.”
Prior to his time as a judge, Goodman was a world-renowned dancer himself.
Goodman’s manager shared the news of his passing with a statement to BCC, reading, “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.” According to the BBC, Goodman was surrounded by his family in Kent, England when he died.
His cause of death has been labeled as bone cancer. Now those who loved and worked closely with Goodman are sharing their own condolences.
Fellow DWTS judge, Bruno Tonioli took to Twitter to share a photo of himself with Goodman, writing, “[Heartbroken] 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 [and] @officialdwts. There will never be anyone like you you will always be my perfect 10.”
Carrie Ann Inaba also took to social media to share a slideshow of pictures and videos of her years sitting next to Len at the judges’ table. “A Dancer. A teacher. A refined gentleman. A wonderful storyteller. A special soul. A mentor. A family man. And… A treasured friend,” Carrie began.
“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. 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.”
Shirley Ballas, fellow professional dancer and the mom of DWTS alum Mark Ballas, also shared her condolences as well. As Ballas shared in her statement, Goodman was once her own teacher
“What extremely sad news this morning. As I came off Good Morning Britain, I heard of the passing of my dearest friend Len Goodman. My past teacher, a dance legend. and a true gentlemen. He was a shining star in the ballroom that everyone loved. He was funny, kind and quick witted. He always found the best way to give couples feedback. My heart is full of memories with him. Thank you for all the years in the dance industry, for your dedication to the art of ballroom dancing, for all your advice over the years and for teaching @corkyballas and I and helping us to win so many championships. For believing in me at times when I didn’t believe in myself. I’ll hold your memory deep in my heart. My heart goes out to Len’s wife Sue, his beautiful family and all who knew him. Love you Len. Reace In Peace.
Len Goodman leaves behind his wife Sue Goodman, his son, James William Goodman, and his grandchildren. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Goodman family during this particularly difficult time.
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