Leonard Gordon Goodman was an English professional ballroom dancer, dance judge and coach. Goodman appeared as head judge on the UK television programme Strictly Come Dancing, where various celebrities ...
Long-time “Dancing With the Stars” and “Strictly Come Dancing” judge Len Goodman has died. He was 78.
Goodman’s manager confirmed his death to the BBC on Monday. The British ballroom dancer and judge, who had been diagnosed with bone cancer, died on April 22 at a hospice in Kent, surrounded by his family.
“It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78,” said Goodman’s agent Jackie Gill in a statement. “A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
Goodman was a mainstay as head judge on the popular BBC dance competition “Strictly Come Dancing” from its 2004 launch right up until 2016. He also served as a judge on the U.S. adaptation, “Dancing With the Stars” on ABC, from its launch in 2005 through to 2022.
Last year, Goodman revealed that Season 31 of “Dancing With the Stars,” which premiered last fall on its new home on streamer Disney+, was going to be his final season after 17 years with the program.
“I got the call to be a judge three days before the first show,” said Goodman at the time, reflecting on his long tenure on the show. “Little Len! Who am I? I’m just a dance teacher from Dartford. Suddenly, I’m thrust into Hollywood. I got the reputation for being the tough judge, because what I see is what I say.”
Indeed, Goodman was respected on both shows for his straightforward critique and analysis of contestants. He didn’t mince words in relaying feedback, but was also kind and complimentary of star performers.
The BBC released a statement just minutes after Goodman’s death was first announced by the public broadcaster, with director general Tim Davie calling him a “wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions.”
“He appealed to all ages and felt like a member of everyone’s family,” said Davie. “Len was at the very heart of ‘Strictly’s’ success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family.”
Born as Leonard Gordon Goodman in London in 1944, Goodman relocated with his family to Blackfen at a young age. One of his early jobs was as an apprentice welder. Upon sustaining a foot injury, a doctor recommended dance as a form of therapy, and Goodman began dancing at 19.