Unfortunately, this week didn’t start out with awesome news in the entertainment industry. The dance community lost a legend when Len Goodman passed away from bone cancer.
Len retired from Dancing With the Stars during Season 31. He announced his departure from the show, surprising everyone, during the semi-finals. Len was met with tears and offers of congratulations from his co-stars at the time. Professional dancer, Gleb Savchenko once called Len “the representation of ballroom dance.”
Obviously, it’s no surprise numerous tributes of love came in after Len’s passing was announced. Now Len’s close DWTS friends share accolades and memories while coming to grips with his death. Us Weekly has the details.
Firstly, co-star and co-judge Carrie Ann Inaba took to Instagram with a video. “A Dancer. A teacher. A refined gentleman. A wonderful storyteller. A special soul. A mentor. A family man. And… A treasured friend,” she began.
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Carrie Ann added, “Saying goodbye at the end of last season broke my heart. But today’s news has shattered it all over again. I can’t believe that you’re gone. You were one of a kind my dear friend. And I will cherish our memories and hold them close, while I join so many others in mourning your loss.”
She continued, “Thank you for all that you shared with us. Your humor, your wisdom, your wit and your truth. Until we meet again… Rest In Peace Len.” Longtime DWTS viewers know Carrie Ann was an original judge with Len and Bruno Tonioli.
On April 24, 2023, Len’s agent confirmed his passing at a hospice facility in Kent, England. He released a statement. It read, “A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.”
Clearly, Len made a lasting impression on Carrie Ann. She further acknowledged him on her Instagram Stories, “Just after 2:15am, I received the news that our Len Goodman had passed away. “I am deeply saddened and in shock. Like many of you, I’m broken hearted.”
Carrie Ann ended with, “He wouldn’t want us to be sad. … Think of one of your favorite Len-isms, and remember him fondly. And then turn on your favorite tune, grab the person next to you and dance. I think he’d like that.”
Former host Tom Bergeron wrote on his Instagram, “A Good Man, indeed. #rip.” Bruno shared a photo of himself with Len and wrote, “Hart broken [sic] my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom LEGEND #LenGoodman passed away I will treasure the memories of our adventures @bbcstrictly @officialdwts there will never be anyone like you you will always be my perfect 10.”
Additionally, former pro-baller and previous DWTS mirror-ball champ Emmitt Smith wrote on Twitter. “Woke up to the sad news of Len Goodman passing this morning. With great love and respect to a good and judge. Condolences to his family! Dance in heaven my friend.”
Current judge Derek Hough contributed, “‘Hold my gaze.’ Heart broken by the news of our dear friend and mentor Len Goodman. It’s a gloomy morning here in Los Angeles which seems fitting after this heart breaking news.”
Derek added, “But when I think back at the memories we all shared with Len, his sense of humor, his smile and charm everything feels much brighter and full of sunshine. Still hard to fully process but filled with gratitude knowing I had the privilege of working beside this absolute legend. We will miss you dearly Len. We love you. Rest In Peace my friend.”
I’ll be doing a little Tango with my 18-year-old cat tonight in Len’s honor. We send condolences to Len’s wife and son, and all who loved him.
TELL US- WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY OF LEN GOODMAN? PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS OR CONDOLENCES IN THE COMMENTS.
[Photo Credit: ABC/Christopher Willard]