The dancing community is holding up their paddles in tribute to beloved “Dancing with the Stars” judge Len Goodman, who died from bone cancer on April 22.
According to Variety, Goodman was in hospice care, surrounded by family at the time of his passing. His agent, Jackie Gill, released an official statement.
“It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78,” wrote Gill . “A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
Goodman was a judge for the U.K. version of the show, called “Strictly Come Dancing,” before joining the American version of the competition. Shortly after the news of Goodman’s death, the BBC posted a tribute with pictures and quotes from costars and fans.
“He appealed to all ages and felt like a member of everyone’s family,” said BBC general director Tim Davie. “Len was at the very heart of ‘Strictly’s’ success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family.”
Social media has erupted with tributes. Fellow judge Bruno Tonioli, who shared a picture of the two of them on his Twitter, wrote, “Hart (sic) broken my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom LEGEND.”
Goodman was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009. He later underwent surgery to remove a facial melanoma. He announced his retirement after 31 seasons to be closer to his family in London.
“I will miss the California sunshine, working with my fellow judges and the camaraderie with everyone on the show,” Goodman told PEOPLE in November 2022. “Retirement looks like more time to be with family and friends and enjoy the grandchildren whilst they are still young and don’t answer me back!”
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