Len Goodman, former head judge of Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing with the Stars, passed away at the age of 78 (BBC, The New York Times). Goodman died on Saturday at a hospice in Tunbridge Wells in Kent after a short illness, sparking an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike (Daily Mail). Goodman was a former British exhibition dance champion and an iconic figure in the world of dance (The New York Times). He was a long-serving judge on both hit reality shows, Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing with the Stars (AP News). Goodman was renowned for his enthusiastic delivery, which effectively turned a score of seven points into his catchphrase, along with “it’s a 10…” (BBC).
Goodman was also known for his passion for dance education and had been an instructor for several years (Good Morning America). His expertise and contributions to dance were not only recognized by his fans but also by his colleagues, with many celebrities and dancers sharing fond memories of their time on the show with Goodman (CNN).
Goodman was battling bone cancer, according to reports (Good Morning America). The beloved ballroom champion had been a judge on Dancing with the Stars and its British counterpart, Strictly Come Dancing, for years (NPR). Fans of the reality shows expressed their shock and sadness on social media, with many sharing their favorite memories of Goodman over the years.
Despite his passing, Goodman’s impact on the world of dance and entertainment will continue to resonate with fans and industry professionals alike. He will be remembered for his infectious energy, passion for dance education, and indisputable expertise in the field of ballroom dance (CBS News).
