Strictly Come Dancing host Len Goodman has died aged 78.
Goodman had recently been admitted to a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, following a short illness. He is reported to have been diagnosed with bone cancer.
Although Goodman was born in Farnborough, Kent, on 25 April 1944, while Strictly itself is based in London, the show was also a regular fixture at the world’s ‘home of ballroom dancing,’ the Blaclkpool Tower Ballroom.
Goodman initally worked as a welder, but his Saturday nights were for dancing at the Embassy Ballroom in Welling. A 40-year career under the glitterball would ultimately follow.
When the BBC rang to suggest he audition for Strictly Come Dancing, Goodman was about to turn 60. His catchphrases, “seeeeven” and “it’s a 10 from Len” soon became favourites in households across the UK.
A role in Dancing With The Stars, the US version of the show, was to follow, earning him fame across the Atlantic. Former BBC Breakfast and Football Focus host Dan Walker was among the first to offer their tribute
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 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/UBrNNZbVtX
— Dan Walker (@mrdanwalker) April 24, 2023
BBC director general Tim Davie said: “Len Goodman was a wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions. He appealed to all ages and felt like a member of everyone’s family. Len was at the very heart of Strictly’s success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family.”
