Strictly Come Dancing favourite Len Goodman has died, it has been announced. The 78-year-old's family confirmed the BBC One star had passed after a 'short illness', saying he had been in a hospice before he died on Saturday night (April 22).
A spokeswoman for Len, who the publication says had bone cancer, told MailOnline: "I can confirm he died peacefully over the weekend surrounded by his family."
Len was the former head judge of Strictly from its launch in 2004 until 2016 and was hugely popular with fans of the hit dance contest. As well as Strictly, he also appeared on the US version of the show, Dancing With the Stars from 2005 until he stepped back in 2022.
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Agent Jackie Gill has also said in a statement: “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."
Tributes have already been flooding in for the TV star and former dancer after news of his death broke on Monday morning (April 24). @DPatz13 tweeted: "RIP Len Goodman. His shouting of "Seven!" is now iconic. Definitely will go down as one of the best judges in Strictly history #Strictly #Legend."
@janekleimunt commented: "Argh #LenGoodman has died. How sad, really liked him. Now he’ll say SEVEN in Heaven….go dance with the Angels Len #Strictly @bbcstrictly." @EveSukiEE shared: "Noooo not Len!! Such a legend. Rest in peace! #LenGoodman."
Last November, Len announced on Dancing With The Stars that he would be hanging up his scoring paddle for the last time at the end of that series, telling viewers: "This will be my last season judging Dancing With the Stars."
He went on to say: "I've been on the show since it started in 2005, and it has been a huge pleasure to be a part of such a wonderful show but I've decided I want to spend more time with my grandchildren and family back in Britain."
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