Len Goodman's friends admit heartbreak after being 'kept in the dark' over secret
Len Goodman's friends admit heartbreak after being kept in the dark over secret
PA
Len Goodman’s friends have admitted they were left heartbroken after being kept in the dark about his battle with terminal bone cancer.
The former Strictly Come Dancing host died on Saturday after spending time in a hospice in Tunbridge Wells battling the illness.
His death was announced on Monday by his agent Jackie Gill.
Gill said in a statement: “It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78.
Len Goodman died on Saturday at the age of 78
PA"A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him."
But Goodman’s co-stars on the American edition of Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing with the Stars US, were thought to be unaware of his cancer diagnosis.
A source claimed: “Len was such a pro that the moment the cameras and light came on, he came the consummate showman.”
The insider added to The Sun: “The news about Len caught many of the production team by surprise today.”
Goodman, who appeared on Strictly Come Dancing from 2004 until 2016, retired from Dancing with the Stars US last November after a 17 year stint on the programme.
The former British dancing champion revealed at the time he would retire from the ABC show to spend more time with his grandchildren in the United Kingdom.
Goodman told viewers: “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.
Goodman spent many years as a judge on Strictly Come DancingPA“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 have decided I’d like to spend more time with my grandchildren and family back in Britain.”
He added: “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’s going to be absolutely brilliant.”
Goodman was born in 1944 and initially worked as an apprentice welder in Woolwich.
He started ballroom dancing in his late teens after a doctor suggested it could help shake off a persistent foot injury.
Goodman previously suffered two cancer scares, including in 2009 when he received prostate cancer treatment and in 2020 when he had surgery to remove a melanoma on his face.
You may like
