Len Goodman’s family remember ‘witty and wonderful’ Strictly judge and launch charity fundraiser in his memory

Len Goodman’s family have paid tribute to the “warm, witty and wonderful” Strictly Come Dancing judge.

The professional dancer-turned-TV judge died aged 78 in a hospice in Kent on Saturday following a secret battle with bone cancer with his family at his side.

In a tribute posted to his son James’s dance academy’s Facebook page, the family said: “How we wish he was still here with us but we are so proud of what he achieved, the happiness he brought us all and the legacy he has left.

“He was known to millions as the first Head Judge on Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing with The Stars but to many of us, who knew him personally, he was just ‘Lucky Len with the boyish grin’.

“We know he has had an impact on many of you over the years as a friend, teacher, mentor and judge and so we have created this site for you to share your stories and memories of his life.

“Len had four charities that were close to his heart that he had supported over the years and we hope that you would also consider making a donation, no matter how small, in his memory.”

The four charities the family included were Kent-based Hospice in the Weald, where it’s believed Goodman passed away, along with Age UK and children’s charities Demelza and Variety.

Goodman had James, 42, with his former partner Lesley, who he had met in a pub in Dartford, Kent. The pair set up a dance school together but split in 1993 and she has since moved to Turkey.

The fund in his memory stood at £886 at the time of writing, but is expected to rise as donations pour in from fans and friends.

Goodman’s death was confirmed on Monday in a statement by his agent, Jackie Gill, which read: “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.”