Len Goodman news – latest: Strictly star dies as Darcey Bussell and Craig Revel Horwood lead tributes

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...

Key points

• Len Goodman dies aged 78

• Craig Revel Horwood pays tribute to ‘gorgeous’ friend and colleague

• Dan Walker shares photos of himself with Goodman

Shirley Ballas, who replaced Goodman as head judge on Strictly, shares tribute...

13:57 , Ellie Harrison

Ballas said she heard the “extremely sad news” as she came off Good Morning Britain...

Simply Red’s Mick Hucknall posts a memory

12:47 , Ellie Harrison

“Spent a memorable day with him on the golf course...” he tweeted. See the post below.

Robert Rinder shares praise for Goodman

12:38 , Ellie Harrison

“A rare gentleman: Kind, charming, exacting, encouraging and danced like a dream...” wrote the star.

Darcey Bussell says she ‘feels so lucky’ to have worked with Goodman

12:36 , Ellie Harrison

“Very sad to hear about the death of dear wonderful gentleman, Len Goodman,” she wrote. See the full post below.

A look back at Goodman’s greatest moments

11:20 , Ellie Harrison

From his brilliant phrases to his Lisa Vanderpump dance...

‘Se-VEN!’ of Len Goodman’s Strictly Come Dancing best bits

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”.

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.

BBC Director-General Tim Davie pays tribute

10:01 , Ellie Harrison

Davie said star will be “hugely missed”.

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.”

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.”