Dancing with the Stars judges have paid tribute to the iconic Len Goodman, who has died aged 78.
The show's former head judge died peacefully on Saturday night following a short battle with bone cancer, his agent Jackie Gill confirmed.
Carrie Ann Inaba, who worked on the show with Len since 2005, has taken to Instagram to share a tribute to her friend following his death.
The choreographer shared a short video compilation of all the fun moments she had experienced with Len and wrote over the top: "Rest in Peace Len. Until we meet again..."
In her caption, she said: "A Dancer. A teacher. A refined gentleman. A wonderful storyteller. A special soul. A mentor. A family man. And… A treasured friend.
Selma Blair 'seriously considered' acting return as she reflects on life with MS
Carrie Ann Inaba shared a loving tribute to Len Goodman (carrieanninaba/Instagram)
They had worked together since 2005 (carrieanninaba/Instagram)"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.
"Thank you for all that you shared with us. Your humor, your wisdom, your wit and your truth."
Taking to her Story, she added: "Like many of you, I'm brokenhearted. He wouldn't want us to be sad. So, with tears in my eyes, I make this humble request...
"Think of one of your favourite Len-isms, and remember him fondly.
Len died at the age of 78 (ABC via Getty Images)"And then turn on your favourite tune, grab the person next to you and dance."
Finishing her tribute, Carrie said: "My favourite Len-ism. 'It's a Ten... from Len.' And Len, YOU were a TEN."
Len's good friend Bruno Tonioli said there will never be another like Len.
The judge shared a picture of himself hugging Len and wrote: "Heartbroken my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom legend #lengoodman passed away.
"I will treasure the memory of our incredible adventures and hundreds of shows we did together @bbcstrictly @dancingwiththestars they will never be anyone like you we will miss you, Bruno."
Get to know Charli D'Amelio
Bruno Tonioli had been friends with Len for almost 20 years (FACEBOOK)Professional dancer Kym Johnson-Herjavec posted a picture of herself with Len and wrote: "Heartbroken. Heavens gates are covered in 10 paddles and mirror balls today.
"Nothing made you feel better than getting a 10 from Len. He was a class act with a cheeky grin and quick wit.
"You will be so missed. Rest In Peace, sweet Len."
Keo Motsepe, who joined Dancing with the Stars in 2014, described Len as a "legend".
Taking to social media, he wrote: "May your soul Rest In Peace. You will be missed, Len. The Legend."
Kym Johnson-Herjavec said Len was 'a class act' (kymherjavec5678/Instagram)Derek Hough, who won Dancing with the Stars a record-breaking six times, wrote: "Heartbroken 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 heartbreaking news.
"But when I think back at the memories we all shared with Len, his sense of humor, his smile and his 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."
Host Tom Bergeron shared a collage of pictures with Len on Instagram and said: "A Good Man, indeed."
Len served as head judge on Dancing With The Stars for more than 15 years until announcing his retirement in November last year.
He said at the time that he wanted to "spend more time with my grandchildren and family" back in the UK.
A statement from Len's agent confirmed his death. It said: "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."
Read more similar news:
Comments:
comments powered by Disqus
