The world has lost a true icon of dance and television—Len Goodman. His passing at the age of 78 marks the end of an era not only in the world of ballroom dancing but also in popular culture, where he became a beloved figure for millions. The news broke quietly, and the outpouring of sadness and tribute has demonstrated just how much he meant to people across the globe. Goodman, who for many years sat in the judge’s chair on Dancing With The Stars and earlier on the UK’s Strictly Come Dancing, was a figure who brought elegance, warmth, and an undeniable sense of integrity to everything he did.
He died on Saturday in a hospice in Kent, in southern England, after battling long and hard against bone cancer. His illness was known to a relatively small circle before it became public knowledge. His manager, Jackie Gill, was the first to confirm the news to CNN, stating simply that Goodman had passed away peacefully, surrounded by family members. It was a moment filled with quiet grief but also deep gratitude for a life that touched so many through its dedication to dance and to his fans.
The impact of Len Goodman stretched far beyond his role as a judge. He was born in London in 1944, and his journey into dance was genuine and inspiring. According to his official website and biographers, Goodman started dancing relatively late—at the age of 19. Before that, he was working in a variety of jobs, typical of a working-class lad in post-war London. But when he discovered ballroom dancing, something clicked. What began as a hobby soon turned into a full-blown career. He was a natural—a dedicated student of the art, with a keen eye for technique and detail.
Goodman quickly rose through the ranks as a professional dancer, competing in ballroom competitions with a passion that propelled him into the professional circuit. His elegance and precision on the dancefloor caught the attention of many, and by the early 2000s, he was a sought-after trainer and choreographer. But his true breakthrough was when he took on the role of head judge on the British version of Strictly Come Dancing, which launched in 2004. He held that position until the show’s final episode on Christmas Day 2016, becoming one of its most recognizable and beloved faces.
His reputation was built on more than just scoring points and calling out “perfect tens.” Len brought warmth, humor, and a fair but firm honesty that endeared him to audiences of all ages. He had an intuitive understanding of dance that went beyond technique—he sensed the emotion, the story, the soul in every step. In interviews, he often emphasized that dancing wasn’t just about movement but about connection—about feeling the music and expressing it authentically. His gentle yet honest critiques created a space where contestants grew, learned, and, in many cases, discovered a love for dance they never knew was inside them.
When he left Strictly, fans were naturally saddened, but they understood that age and health might eventually take their toll. Shirley Ballas stepped in to fill his place, carrying forward his legacy of wisdom and kindness. Still, the public, his friends, and his family will forever hold in their hearts the image of Len Goodman—the “perfect judge” who was liked by people of all ages and who made everyone feel like they were part of a big, happy family.
The tributes from fellow dancers and celebrities poured in shortly after the news broke. Bruno Tonioli, one of Goodman’s closest friends and long-time colleagues, shared an emotional tribute on social media. He posted a black-and-white picture of himself and Goodman holding hands, smiling softly at the camera, with the words: “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 image and words stirred deep feelings among fans and friends alike, a reminder of the bond they shared—not just as colleagues but as kindred spirits united by dance and a genuine love for life.
Outside of television, Goodman remained deeply involved in the world of dance. He founded the Goodman Dance Academy in Kent—a place where he mentored aspiring dancers, passing on his knowledge and passion to a new generation. His autobiography, Better Late Than Never: From Barrow Boy to Ballroom, published in 2009, encapsulates that journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim. He also authored Dancing Around Britain and Lost London, exploring his love for history and storytelling beyond the dance floor.
His influence isn’t confined to his words or his judging. He was a true craftsman, dedicated to refining his art and sharing it with others. His disciplined approach and unwavering integrity made him a role model for dancers and non-dancers alike. He believed that dance was a universal language—one that could unite people across cultures and backgrounds. That’s why his loss is felt so deeply
