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Colleagues mourn the death of ‘Dancing with the Stars’ judge Len Goodman

Tributes are pouring in on social media after news broke that longtime Dancing with the Stars judge Len Goodman had died on Saturday of bone cancer. Goodman’s agent confirmed on Monday that the 78-year old died two days prior at a hospice in Kent, England. A statement to the BBC read: “A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”

Goodman was one of the original three judges on the reality dance competition, which premiered on ABC in 2005. Goodman served as head judge with Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, missing parts of season 19 and 23 and all of season 21 and 29. A former competitive ballroom dancer himself, Goodman was also known for the U.K. show ‘Strictly Come Dancing.’ He announced his departure from DWTS in November 2022 after season 31, sharing at the time: “I’ve been with the show since it started in 2005 and it has been a huge pleasure to be part of such a wonderful show, but I’ve decided I would like to spend more time with my grandchildren and family back in Britain. I cannot thank you enough, the Dancing With the Stars family, it’s been such a wonderful experience for me and I’m looking forward so much to next week’s finale.”

Tonioli wrote on Instagram: “Heart broken my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom legend #lengoodman passed away 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 Bruno” Inaba also shared on Instagram: “a dancer. A teacher. A refined gentleman. A wonderful storyteller. A special soul. A mentor. A family man. And … a treasured friend. Saying goodbye at the end of last season broke my heart. But today’s news has shattered it all over again. I can’t believe that you’re gone. You were one of a kind my dear friend. And I will cherish our memories and hold them close, while I join so many others in mourning your loss. Thank you for all that you shared with us. Your humor, your wisdom, your wit and your truth. Until we meet again Rest In Peace Len ”