The world quietly said goodbye today to a beloved figure who had become a household name through his warmth, wit, and undeniable charm. Len Goodman, the legendary dance expert and judge known for his role on Dancing With The Stars, passed away at the age of 78 in a hospice in Kent, southern England. His death marks the end of an era in entertainment, but more than that, it leaves a void in the hearts of millions who admired him not just for his expertise in dance, but for the genuine kindness he radiated throughout his career.
Len’s journey into the limelight was a remarkable one. Born in London in 1944, he started dancing relatively late, at the age of 19. Quite unlike many professional dancers who begin training early in childhood, Goodman’s path was different—yet it was no less impressive. His website notes that he was a self-trained ballroom dancer who learned the craft through dedication and passion. Before stepping into the world of television, he was a working professional, competing in countless ballroom competitions, honing his skills with perseverance and a sharp eye for detail. His experience on the dance floor laid the foundation for what would become a life dedicated to teaching, judging, and sharing this art form with the world.
In 2004, that dedication took a new shape—when Goodman became the head judge of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. For over a decade, he brought a unique blend of professionalism, humor, and warmth to the judging panel, quickly becoming one of the show’s most beloved figures. His critiques were honest yet gentle, often laced with witty one-liners and heartfelt praise, creating a space where contestants felt both challenged and supported. To fans, he wasn’t just a judge; he was a symbol of integrity and respect, someone who believed in the power of dance to unite and uplift.
When he transitioned from Strictly to Dancing With The Stars—bringing his expertise from the UK to the US—he continued to leave an indelible mark. Alongside fellow judges Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, Len offered insights rooted in decades of experience, inspiring countless contestants to push beyond their limits. The chemistry between them was genuine, and the warmth Goodman displayed made the show feel more like a family gathering than a competition. His presence was soothing, and his words carried weight—whether he was encouraging a novice or criticizing a more experienced dancer.
The tributes that poured in after the news of his passing are a testament to the impact he left behind. BBC director-general Tim Davie called Len a “wonderful, warm entertainer who was loved by millions,” words that perfectly encapsulate the essence of who he was. Davie also remarked, “He was liked by people of all ages and made everyone feel like he was part of their family,” emphasizing how Goodman’s genuine charm extended far beyond the dance floor. For many, he was more than a judge; he was a beloved mentor, a friend who built connections through shared passion and sincerity.
Bruno Tonioli, his long-time friend and colleague, shared a touching tribute on social media. He posted a heartfelt picture of himself and Goodman holding hands, a quiet yet powerful symbol of their decades of friendship. Bruno captioned it, “Heartbroken, my dear friend and partner for 19 years—the one and only ballroom LEGEND #LenGoodman has passed away. I will treasure the memories of our adventures. There will never be anyone like you—you will always be my perfect 10.” The phrase “perfect 10” wasn’t just a judging score; it was a testament to the respect and admiration that defined their relationship, both professionally and personally. Their bond was rooted in mutual love for dance, day-to-day kindness, and a shared sense of humor that made every moment together special.
Beyond television, Goodman dedicated much of his life to nurturing the art of dance. He founded the Goodman Dance Academy in Kent, a dance school where he trained and mentored countless students over the years. His focus was always on passing his knowledge to the next generation—making dance accessible, enjoyable, and a way of life. He was a firm believer that dance could serve as a bridge across social divides, uniting people through the joy of movement and the beauty of precision.
In 2009, Goodman published his autobiography, Better Late Than Never: From Barrow Boy to Ballroom, a heartfelt memoir that recounts his journey from a boy working in a market stall to a global dance icon. His story was one of perseverance, humility, and relentless passion—qualities that inspired many. He also authored Dancing Around Britain and Lost London, exploring his love for history and the storytelling that dance and culture can evoke. Every page of his books reflected the deep love he had for growing and sharing the beauty of dance.
The impact of his passing echoes beyond just the entertainment industry. It’s a loss felt deeply by his friends, family, colleagues, and millions of fans worldwide. Requesting that the world remember him not just.
