Apr 25, 1944 - Apr 22, 2023April 25, 1944 - April 22, 2023
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Farnborough, Kent, England
Had a dream of playing soccer, but at 20 years old had a foot injury and his doctor advised him to start dancing, in order to hasten the healing process.
Len Goodman was born in Farnborough, Kent, in April 1944.
He grew up in East London, where his grandfather worked as a costermonger, selling fruit and vegetables.
At age 20 he broke his foot and his doctor noted he should try ballroom dancing to help the healing process - Len took to it and soon went pro.
Over his dancing career Len won various competitions, but retired from dancing after winning the British Championships at Blackpool in his late twenties.
He was a recipient of the Carl Alan Award, in recognition of outstanding contributions to dance and in 2006 and 2007 a show in which he appeared was nominated for the Emmy Award in the Outstanding Reality/Competition Program category.
His autobiography, Better Late Than Never, written with Richard Havers, was published by Ebury Press in 2008.
Len Goodman was one of the longest-serving judges on Strictly Come Dancing, appearing on the show from 2004 until 2016.
Len then became the sole head judge on Strictly Come Dancing's American adaptation, Dancing with the Stars, appearing on the show as a judge from 2005–2022.
Len Goodman passed away from bone cancer in April 2023.
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Farnborough, Kent, England