Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas has shared an emotional tribute to good friend Len Goodman.
The much-loved TV star died on Saturday (April 22), following a short illness. The former Strictly Come Dancing head judge died aged 78 following a bone cancer diagnosis and had been in a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, the Daily Mail reports.
Agent Jackie Gill previously 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."
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Speaking on Loose Women this morning, Shirley Ballas shared her heart-warming memories of the ballroom legend, who had known since she was nine-years-old. She told the Loose Women panel he was a "wonderful man".
Speaking about his final months, Shirley said she saw him become quite "frail" but added: "He was still full of humour, he liked a cuddle. and that smile, it was piercing." She went on to say they "kind of knew" as he "didn't look his best".
Len was the face of Strictly from its launch in 2004 until he left in 2016. He was hugely popular with viewers for his sense of humour, and his sought after score of a "ten from Len".
Shirley told the ITV show on Wednesday of the best advice she received from her mentor and friend. She said: "Don't take yourself too seriously, the audience know a lot about dancing, they are experts, come in give a few tips about each and enjoy the performances that are there to entertain."
She went on to say he was "the life and soul of the party" and always referred to her as "Twirly Shirley" or "Curly Shirley". Having taught her a lot about the world of dancing, Len also taught how to "pick yourself up and always walk into a room with a smile."
Surprisingly, Shirley shared a little-known fact about Len, which was he loved to write poetry and rhymes, especially when people were married and was always writing.
Speaking about her return to Strictly, Shirley, who got emotional on screen, said: "Every step I will be thinking about him."
Many people took to social media to share their tributes. Ian Berry said: "Beautiful tribute to Len. Well done the lovely Shirley Ballas." Sabrina wrote: "has never been the same since Len left." Another added: "Len Goodman was Strictly."
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