Rosario Monachino
The Strictly Come Dancing judge has died aged 78.
Len Goodman was an English professional ballroom dancer, dance judge and coach.
He appeared as head judge on the TV dance show Strictly Come Dancing, a programme where celebrities compete for the glitter ball trophy.
Goodman also appeared on the US version of the show, Dancing with the Stars.
Sadly, the icon’s death has been announced.
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Goodman had reportedly been in a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, following a short illness.
A spokesperson for Goodman tells the Daily Mail: “I can confirm he died peacefully over the weekend surrounded by his family.”
The 78-year-old passed away on Saturday night – just a few days before his 79th birthday (April 25).
His cause of death is unknown at the time of writing.
A statement from his agent, Jackie Gill, reads: “It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78.
“He was replaced as head judge on the BBC show by Shirley Ballas.
“A much-loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
Tributes for Goodman have been pouring in on social media.
Fellow Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood pens: “I’ve just woken up to the sad news that my gorgeous colleague and dear friend Len Goodman has passed away.
“My heart and love go out to his lovely Sue and family. Len Goody Goodman is what I always called him and ‘It’s a ten from Len and seveeeeern’ will live with me forever. RIP Len.”
BBC presenter and former Strictly competitor Dan Walker has shared snaps of the pair, tweeting: “So sad to hear about the death of Len Goodman.
“He was an incredible man and an extraordinary talent. Loved making telly with him, being daft with him, playing golf with him and will never forget the little tips he would send every week on Strictly.
“All my love to his family.”
Someone else adds: “RIP Len Goodman. His shouting of ‘Seven!’ is now iconic.
“Definitely will go down as one of the best judges in Strictly history.”
Another user comments: “So sorry to hear of the passing of Len Goodman… sad news, thoughts are with his family… RIP Len.”
“Very sad news about Len Goodman who was a gentleman who inspired millions in a love of dance,” writes someone else.
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Growing up, Goodman was an aspiring footballer. However, he started dancing at age 20 to help recover from a foot injury.
This soon became Goodman’s passion and he eventually became a professional dancer – where he competed at the highest levels.
This included winning events such as the British Exhibition Championships and the World Exhibition Championships.
After retiring from dancing, the star founded the Goodman Dance Academy in Dartford.
Goodman is best recognised for being one of the original judges of Strictly Come Dancing – where his enthusiastic announcement for the ‘seven’ score has become iconic and synonymous with the show.
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