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Chronicle Live
Entertainment
Simon Duke

Strictly's Len Goodman dies at 78 as tributes flood in for dancer and BBC star

Tributes have come pouring in from the world of entertainment after the death of much loved Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman at the age of 78.

Len had been battling bone cancer and, confirming his passing, a spokesperson for the entertainer, told MailOnline: "I can confirm he died peacefully over the weekend surrounded by his family."

Len is most famous for being one of the original judges on Strictly, when the smash hit programme launched in the summer of 2004. He stayed on the show for 12 years, becoming famous for his "SEVEN!" catchphrase, before bowing out and being replaced by current head judge Shirley Ballas in 2017.

READ MORE: Dale Meeks dies at 47 as tributes pour in for Emmerdale and Byker Grove star

Reacting to the news on Twitter, one fan wrote: "Another great man has gone. Len Goodman, the great dancing man and ex judge of Strictly died in his sleep last night. I hope he finds my mum up there and gives her a dance, she would love that. RIP Sir you were a lovely man.

A second tweeted: "Len Goodman. What a great dancer and broadcaster. Forever associated with 7. RIP," with another heartbroken fan responding: "So gutted to hear about Len Goodman! Can't believe it, I've watch strictly for years and years and hear of his passing is heartbreaking! So sad."

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