Judges and hosts of Strictly Come Dancing have led a string of heartfelt tributes for the late Len Goodman after his heartbreaking death was announced on Monday at the age of 78.
People across the nation have been left saddened following the news of the dancer, choreographer and BBC Strictly Come Dancing hosting legend's passing, after being diagnosed with bone cancer.
And now some of his co-stars have led the way in their own heartfelt tributes to the much-loved television presenter as they fondly recalled his “twinkle, warmth and wit”.
Len, who leaves behind his wife Sue and son James, became a judge on the BBC show in 2004 – becoming known for his iconic catchphrase “Seven!” – and his final appearance was on the 2016 Christmas Day special.
Fellow judges Bruno Tonioli, Craig Revel Horwood and Dame Darcey Bussell, as well as co-host Claudia Winkleman, were among those sharing tributes.
Bruno Tonioli, who has joined this year's Britain's Got Talent panel, said his heart was “broken” at the news that his “dear friend and partner” had died.
He added: “I will treasure the memory of our incredible adventures and hundreds of shows we did together @bbcstrictly @dancingwiththestars.
“They will never be anyone like you. We will miss you.”
Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood described Goodman as a “gorgeous colleague and dear friend“ adding: "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 & seveeeeern’ will live with me forever. RIP Len.”
Dame Darcy said she was “very sad” and described Goodman as a “dear wonderful gentleman”.
“My heart goes out to his family & dear Sue,” she added.
“He gave me such support on my time at Strictly. I feel so lucky to have worked with such a professional, funny, loveable man. Thank you for the special memories.”
Presenter Claudia Winkleman tweeted: “I’m so sad about Len. He was one of a kind, a brilliant and kind man. Full of twinkle, warmth and wit.
“Sending all love to his family and friends.”
Strictly presenter Tess Daly said Len Goodman “left an impression on everyone he met” in response to the news the beloved Strictly judge had died.
In an Instagram post, she wrote: “So very sad to hear the news today of the passing of our Len Goodman.
“A beautiful man, genuine, warm and humble, who left an impression on everyone he met.
“I’ll never forget the fun we had on set, his love and passion for dancing and that wonderfully cheeky smile lit up the screen.”
“You were never a 7 for me, Len you were always a 10. My sincere condolences to Sue and all the family. Rest in peace Len.”
Former Strictly judge Alesha Dixon called Len Goodman “a true gentleman and one of a kind” in response to the news her fellow judge has died.
Tributes also came from former Strictly contestants, including Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid, who competed in 2013.
She said: “Oh this is such an awful shock and so sad. Len was an absolute legend & the definition of a proper gent.
“He was a beautiful man with a huge sense of humour who had such a mischievous turn of phrase.
“I’ll never forget ‘All bounce, bum & bongos’. My love to his family.”
Former BBC presenter Dan Walker, who competed in 2021 and was friends with Goodman, also paid tribute.
He tweeted: “So sad to hear about the death of Len Goodman. He was an incredible man & an extraordinary talent.
“Loved making telly with him, being daft with him, playing golf with him & will never forget the little tips he would send every week on Strictly. All my love to his family.”
Buckingham Palace said the Queen Consort was saddened to learn of Len Goodman’s death.
“Her Majesty was saddened to hear the news,” a spokesperson said.
Len Goodman announced his retirement from TV six months ago and would have celebrated his 79th birthday on Tuesday.
He began dancing at 19, winning various competitions including the British Championships in Blackpool in his late 20s, after which he retired from professional competition.
He was replaced as head judge on Strictly by Shirley Ballas for the 2017 series and stepped down from head judge on Dancing With The Stars US after wanting to “spend more time with my grandchildren and family” back in the UK.
Outside dance, Goodman was a music enthusiast and regularly stood in for the late Paul O’Grady when the entertainer was away from his BBC Radio 2 show.
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