Len Goodman’s Legacy Lives On Through Dance — And Heartfelt Moments on Stage
The world of dance has lost one of its most cherished voices. Len Goodman, the longtime head judge of Dancing with the Stars and Strictly Come Dancing, passed away Saturday after a battle with bone cancer. Yet, even in his absence, his impact continues to resonate — not just through his critiques or championships, but through the joy, wit, and grace he brought to the ballroom.
Though known for his sharp eye and no-nonsense scoring, Goodman occasionally traded his judge’s paddle for the dance floor — offering fans a rare glimpse into the elegance and warmth that made him a beloved figure.
One of his most charming appearances came alongside Real Housewives star Lisa Vanderpump. The pair shared a lighthearted quickstep that ended with a playful kiss on the cheek from Vanderpump. Goodman’s delighted grin afterward was pure gold — a moment of fun that reminded everyone why the show worked so well: it never took itself too seriously.
But it wasn’t all laughs. One of Goodman’s most poignant performances occurred during a Vietnamese Waltz with Olympic gymnast Nastia Liukin. After beginning the number with her pro partner Derek Hough, Liukin was gracefully handed over to Goodman, who completed the dance with elegance and poise. The moment felt symbolic — a bridge between generations, between critique and craft, between past and present.
Reflecting on the dance, Goodman once told PEOPLE, “Dancing to a song sung live in the studio by Leela James [‘Fall For You’] brought back such happy memories of my dancing past.”
It’s those memories — the ones he lived, and the ones he gave us — that linger now. From ballroom purists to casual fans, Len Goodman was more than a judge. He was the soul of the show. And in every glide, every lift, every “seven!” shouted across a stage, his spirit still twirls on.