Len Goodman, a beloved judge on popular dance competition shows “Strictly Come Dancing” and “Dancing with the Stars,” has passed away at the age of 78. The sad news was announced by his manager Jackie Gill in a statement to the BBC, in which she said that Goodman had died peacefully. Gill described him as a “much-loved husband, father, and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.”
Goodman had been diagnosed with bone cancer, and he passed away on April 22 while under hospice care. Following the announcement of his death, fans, and colleagues of the iconic judge took to social media to pay tribute to him and share their condolences.
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One of Goodman’s fellow “Strictly Come Dancing” judges, Craig Revel Horwood, wrote a heartfelt tribute to him on Instagram. “My heart and love go out to his lovely wife Sue and family. Len ‘goody’ Goodman is what I called him and ‘It’s a ten from Len and seveeeeern’ will live with me forever. Rest in peace Len,” Horwood wrote.
Goodman’s death is a huge loss for the entertainment industry, where he had been a fixture for many years. He was known for his expertise in ballroom dancing and his kind-hearted, jovial personality, which made him a beloved figure among fans of “Strictly Come Dancing” and “Dancing with the Stars.”
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Born in 1944 in Bethnal Green, East London, Goodman began his career as a dancer and later became a successful dance teacher and choreographer. He was a judge on the BBC’s “Come Dancing” show in the 1970s and 1980s, and 2004, he joined the cast of “Strictly Come Dancing” as a judge.
Goodman quickly became one of the show’s most popular and recognizable personalities, with his catchphrases and signature phrases becoming part of the show’s lexicon. His expertise and guidance helped countless contestants improve their dancing skills and win the hearts of audiences around the world.
Goodman’s legacy in the world of dance and entertainment is immense, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans around the world. His wife, Sue Barrett, whom he married in 2012, and his son James William Goodman, from a previous relationship, survive him.
As news of Goodman’s passing spread, social media was flooded with tributes from fans and colleagues who praised him for his kindness, humor, and expertise in the field of ballroom dancing. Many expressed their condolences to his family and thanked Goodman for the joy and entertainment he brought to their lives.
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“Len Goodman was an absolute gentleman and an absolute pleasure to work with,” wrote fellow “Strictly Come Dancing” judge Bruno Tonioli. “He was always kind, supportive, and funny, and I will miss him very much. My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”
Fans of the show also shared their memories of Goodman and the impact he had on their lives. “Len was one of the reasons I started watching ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ in the first place,” wrote one fan on Twitter. “He had such a warm and welcoming personality, and he made me feel like I could learn to dance too. He will be missed.”
Goodman’s death is a reminder of the profound impact that people can have on the lives of others, and how much we can all learn from the wisdom, kindness, and expertise of those around us. As we mourn his passing, we can take comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the joy he brought to so many.
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