Len Goodman sadly died aged 78 just a few months after he revealed the heartbreaking reason he decided to quit Dancing With The Stars.
The iconic judge and former dancer passed away on Saturday night (April 22) after reportedly a short battle with bone cancer.
His death comes months after he announced on Dancing With The Stars that he would be hanging up his scoring paddle for the last time at the end of that series.
READ MORE: Strictly Come Dancing stars’ tragic deaths – suicide, pneumonia and cancer battle
For 17 years, the Brit won over the American audience on the US version of Strictly thanks to his infectious personality and impeccable knowledge.
Len was on the panel alongside judges Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli.
But in November, he shocked viewers when he announced he would be leaving during the season’s semi-final show.
(Image: ABC via Getty Images)
With tears filling up in his eyes, he told the audience: “Whilst we’re all getting excited and looking forward so much to the finale next week, it will also be with a touch of sadness as this will be my last season judging on Dancing with the Stars.
“I’ve been with the show since it started in 2005 and it has been a huge pleasure to be a part of such a wonderful show, but I’ve decided I’d like to spend more time with my grandchildren and family back in Britain.”
(Image: Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)
The head judge went on: “I cannot thank you enough, the Dancing With the Stars family. It’s been such a wonderful experience for me and I’m looking forward so much to next week’s finale. I’m sure it’ gonna be absolutely brilliant.”
His announcement was met with sadness by his fellow judges who gathered round to comfort him.
Len was also known for his role on the UK version of the show, Strictly Come Dancing.
He joined Strictly in 2004 before waltzing away from the iconic show in 2016.
(Image: PA)
Len lead a stellar career which spanned over six decades.
He wanted to be a footballer but started dancing aged 20 after his doctor recommended it to recover from a foot injury.
The star later turned professional and won dance competitions around the world.
Len made numerous TV and radio appearances in the UK and was also been a very successful presenter of several shows, as well as starring in the Strictly Live Tour for many years.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
