Leonard Goodman, the longtime judge of Dancing with the Stars has died at the age of 78. The professional ballroom dancer passed away peacefully at a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, England on Saturday, April 22nd in the presence of his family.
Goodman was diagnosed with bone cancer a few months ago. After serving as the head judge on DWTS for almost 17 years, he announced his retirement in November last year. Continue reading to know more about his life and career.
Leonard Goodman Dies at 78
Goodman’s representative Jackie Gill announced the news of his demise with a statement on Monday morning: “It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78. A much-loved husband, father, and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends, and all who knew him.”
The dancer was diagnosed with prostate cancer in March 2009, after which he underwent surgery and won over the disease. Then in 2020, he was treated for a small facial melanoma. He was later diagnosed with bone cancer. Goodman is survived by his wife Sue Barrett and son James.
Goodman Joined DWTS in the Premiere Season in 2005
Leonard Goodman was a professional dancer who won the British Championships at Blackpool. In 2004, he starred as the head judge on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing and continued with the show till 2016.
In 2005, he was made the head judge on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars in its debut season. Goodman was accompanied by Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli. He appeared on the show for 20 seasons before taking a break for the 21st season. He then returned for seasons 22 to 28 and season 30.
In November 2022, Goodman announced his retirement from DWTS. “It has been a huge pleasure to be a part of such a wonderful show. But I’ve decided I’d like to spend more time with my grandchildren and family back in Britain. I could not thank you enough, my Dancing With The Stars family, it’s been such a wonderful experience for me,” he said at the time.
Celebrities Pay Condolences
A number of celebs and fans have taken to social media to pay their condolences following Goodman’s death. Television host Piers Morgan tweeted, “More very sad news from the world of entertainment…RIP Len Goodman, 78 – welder, dancer, judge, and devoted cricket & West Ham fan.”
“Always had a laugh with Len, and swapped a few strong opinions. A quintessential Londoner and a top bloke,” he continued. Presenter Eamonn Holmes added, “Bye bye Len. My Father and my eldest brother were also called Len or Leonard. Good strong names less common today. I took LG to Cushendall.”
BBC Director-General Tim Davie also mourned Goodman’s demise and wrote, “Len Goodman was a wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions. He appealed to all ages and felt like a member of everyone’s family. Len was at the very heart of Strictly’s success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family.”
Our condolences to Leonard Goodman’s family and friends. May his soul rest in peace!
