As the dance competition series returned for season 32 on Monday night (September 26), they took some time to honor the late judge and make announcement of how they’re paying tribute to him from here on out.
Longtime head judge Len Goodman sadly passed away at 78 years old this past weekend after suffering from bone cancer.
The ballroom expert died at a hospice on Saturday (April 22), “peacefully, surrounded by his family,” his agent confirmed, via THR.
“Len Goodman will always be an icon in the world of ballroom dance, and we were lucky to have him as part of our Dancing with the Stars family for 31 seasons,” the DWTS social accounts shared. “He was warm and caring, and always delivered genuine guidance. We are devastated by the news of his passing and our hearts are with his family during this very difficult time.”
So sad – Len Goodman won’t be a judge on this upcoming season of Dancing with the Stars!
The 71-year-old dancer has been a judge since the show started back in 2005.
“Len will not be returning as a judge this season on Dancing With the Stars due to his schedule as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing in the UK and the birth of his new grandson,” DWTS executive producer Rob Wade told Us Weekly in a statement. Len, 71, is also part of Strictly Come Dancing, which is popular in the UK.
The 25-year-old gymnast danced almost the entire dance with Derek – and then at the end, met with judge Len Goodman on the dance floor and finished up the last few seconds with him. It was especially emotional because during the segment, Len disclosed that he really could not dance anymore due to health issues.
Nastia and Derek finished up the night with a perfect score all around. Congrats!
Nastia Liukin & Derek Hough – Viennese Waltz with Len Goodman – DWTS Semi-Finals, 5/11
