Strictly Come Dancing lead judge Len Goodman has died at the age of 78

Former Strictly Come Dancing main judge Len Goodman has died at the age of 78.

The London-based dancer and choreographer was diagnosed with bone cancer and died on Saturday evening.

Goodman became a judge on the BBC show in 2004, and his last appearance was in the Christmas special in 2016.

Six months ago he announced he was leaving television and would have celebrated his 79th birthday on Tuesday.

A statement from his agent said: “It is with great sadness that we announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully at the age of 78.

“A beloved husband, father and grandfather who will be greatly missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.”

Goodman started dancing at the age of 19, winning various competitions including the British Championships in Blackpool in his early 20s, before retiring.

He was replaced as head judge on the BBC show by Shirley Ballas.

Goodman was also the head judge of the US version of “Dancing With The Stars” for more than 15 years until announcing his retirement last November.

He said at the time that he wanted to “spend more time with my grandchildren and family” in the UK.

Goodman was also the recipient of the Carl Alan Award in recognition of outstanding contributions to dance.

As well as his successful dancing and television career, he also owned Goodman Academy, a dance school in Dartford, Kent.

Outside of dancing, Goodman was a music enthusiast and regularly filled in for the late Paul O’Grady when the artist was not performing on his BBC Radio 2 show.

Among those who paid tribute was BBC director general Tim Davie.

He said: “Len Goodman was a wonderful, warm artist who was adored by millions. He appealed to all ages and felt like a member of everyone’s family.

“Linen was at the heart of Strictly’s success. He will be greatly missed by the public and his many friends and family.”

Sternly, judge Craig Revel Horwood wrote on Twitter: “Just woke up to the sad news that my great colleague and dear friend Len Goodman has passed away.

“My heart and love go out to his lovely Sue and family.

“I always called him Len Goody Goodman and the phrase ‘It’s 10 from Len & seveeeern’ will stay with me forever. RIP Len.”

Former BBC presenter Dan Walker, who was a contestant on Strictly in 2021 and was friends with Goodman, said he was “very sad” to hear the news.

He added: “He was an amazing man and an extraordinary talent. I loved talking to him on TV, being silly with him, playing golf with him and I’ll never forget the little tips he sent every week to Strictly. All my love to his family.”