'Heartbroken' Strictly judges pay tribute to Len Goodman the 'accidental' dance star who made ballroom accessible to millions

Strictly Come Dancing judges have paid heartfelt tributes to former head judge Len Goodman after he passed away at the age of 78. The ballroom star's family confirmed he had died peacefully after a 'short illness', saying he had been in a hospice before he died on Saturday night (April 22).

Len was head judge of Strictly from its launch in 2004 until 2016 and was also had judge on the US version of the show, Dancing With the Stars from 2005 until he stepped back in 2022. His agent Jackie Gill has also said in a statement: “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."

Tributes have already been flooding in for Len, who became an unexpected dance star after injury ended his footballing career, from his fellow judges. Craig Revel Horwood took to Instagram to share an early Strictly photo of himself seated on the judging panel with Len, Dame Arlene Phillips and Bruno Toniloli.

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"I’ve just woken up to the sad news that my gorgeous colleague and dear friend Len Goodman has passed away," he typed. "My heart and love go out to his lovely wife Sue and family. Len ‘goody’ Goodman is what I called him and “it’s a ten from Len and seveeeeern” will live with me forever. Rest in peace Len."

Former judge Bruno, who was replaced on the panel by Anton Du Beke, wrote: "Heart broken my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom legend #lengoodman passed away.

"I will treasure the memory of our incredible adventures and hundreds of shows we did together @bbcstrictly @dancingwiththestars they