Len Goodman, the cherished head judge of Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing With the Stars, has died at 78 after a battle with bone cancer. He passed away peacefully in a hospice in Kent, surrounded by family.

A former professional dancer, Goodman began his ballroom journey at 19 and rose to fame as a warm, witty, and no-nonsense judge who became the heart of Strictly from 2004 to 2016.

Tributes poured in from across the entertainment world. BBC’s Tim Davie called him “a wonderful, warm entertainer loved by millions.” Bruno Tonioli mourned the loss of his “ballroom legend” and “perfect 10” partner of 19 years.

Beyond TV, Goodman ran a dance school in Kent and authored several books, including his autobiography Better Late Than Never.

A true icon of the dance world, Len Goodman leaves behind a legacy of grace, charm, and unforgettable “SEV-EN!”s that will echo forever.