Len Goodman news – latest: Craig Revel Horwood leads tributes as Strictly Come Dancing star dies
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Len Goodman, the former Strictly Come Dancing head judge known for his enthusiastic shouts of “sevennnnn!”, has died aged 78.
He first became a judge on the BBC dancing competition in 2004 and his final appearance was on the 2016 Christmas Day special.
Goodman was also a judge on the US show Dancing with the Stars, a role he retired from in November last year.
A statement from his agent said: “It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78. He was replaced as head judge on the BBC show by Shirley Ballas.
“A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
Tributes have been flooding in for the star. Read live updates below...
Kathy Burke urges fans to listen to Goodman’s ‘Desert Island Discs'
10:16 , Ellie Harrison
“Len Goodman’s Desert Island Discs is a gorgeous, uplifting listen. RIP,” comedian and podcast host shared.
Singer Aled Jones calls Goodman a ‘lovely man'
10:14 , Ellie Harrison
He tweeted: “So sad to hear of the death of Len Goodman – loved him to bits! Such a kind, fun and lovely man. X.”
Strictly filming studio pays tribute
10:05 , Ellie Harrison
Bosses at site said they are “heartbroken”.
We are heartbroken to hear about the passing of former Strictly Come Dancing head judge, Len Goodman. It was an absolute pleasure having Len on site over the years, we are truly grateful for all the memories.
Our thoughts are with Len’s family and friends. pic.twitter.com/zOfCMfwz5d— Elstree Studios (@ElstreeStudios) April 24, 2023
Strictly’s Craig Revel Horwood remembers ‘gorgeous’ friend
10:03 , Ellie Harrison
“I’ve just woken up to the sad news that my gorgeous colleague and dear friend Len Goodman has passed away,” he wrote.
I’ve just woken up to the sad news that my gorgeous colleague and dear friend Len Goodman has passed away. My heart and love go out to his lovely Sue and family. Len Goody Goodman is what I always called him and “It’s a ten from Len & seveeeeern”will live with me forever. RIP Len
— Craig Revel Horwood (@CraigRevHorwood) April 24, 2023
BBC Director-General Tim Davie pays tribute
10:01 , Ellie Harrison
Davie said star will be “hugely missed”.
"Len was at the very heart of Strictly's success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family."
BBC Director-General Tim Davie pays tribute to Len Goodmanhttps://t.co/nrjiL32FL8 pic.twitter.com/Ibtx0YhR1e— BBC Press Office (@bbcpress) April 24, 2023
Piers Morgan shares memories
09:53 , Ellie Harrison
“Always had a laugh with Len, and swapped a few strong opinions,” broadcaster wrote. “A quintessential Londoner and a top bloke.”
More very sad news from the world of entertainment…
RIP Len Goodman, 78 - welder, dancer, judge, and devoted cricket & West Ham fan. Always had a laugh with Len, and swapped a few strong opinions. A quintessential Londoner and a top bloke. pic.twitter.com/RXBhLQfSPh— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) April 24, 2023
Former BBC Breakfast presenter Dan Walker pays tribute
09:50 , Ellie Harrison
The TV host wrote: “Loved making telly with him, being daft with him, playing golf with him and will never forget the little tips he would send every week on Strictly.”
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
