Strictly Come Dancing's Shirley Ballas wells up as she pays moving tribute to Len Goodman on Loose Women

Shirley Ballas became emotional as she appeared on Loose Women to pay tribute to Len Goodman. The former Strictly Come Dancing judge died on Saturday, April 22, before it was announced by his family and his agent on Monday, April 24.

The 78-year-old's family confirmed the BBC One star had passed after a 'short illness', saying he had been in a hospice before he died. A spokeswoman for Len, who the publication says had bone cancer, told MailOnline: "I can confirm he died peacefully over the weekend surrounded by his family."

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."

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Len was the former head judge of Strictly from its launch in 2004 until 2016 and was hugely popular with fans of the hit dance contest. As well as Strictly, he also appeared on the US version of the show, Dancing With the Stars from 2005 until he stepped back in 2022.

Tributes flooded in for the TV star and former dancer, including from members of the Strictly family both past and present. Taking to Instagram, host Tess Daly sent her condolences to Len's family, including his wife Sue, writing: "So very sad to hear the news today of the passing of our Len Goodman.

"A beautiful man, genuine, warm and humble, who left an impression on everyone he met. I'll never forget the fun we had on set, his love and passion for dancing and that wonderfully cheeky smile lit up the screen."

Strictly co-host Claudia Winkelman also paid tribute. In a tweet, she wrote: "I’m so sad about Len. He