Len Goodman, the beloved ballroom dancer and judge known for his time on Dancing with the Stars, left an indelible mark on the world of dance. His recent passing has left fans and friends mourning a man who was not just talented but also deeply loved by his family and colleagues. During a touching tribute episode on October 24, 2023, Len's life and contributions were celebrated in a heartfelt performance that brought many to tears.
As the episode unfolded, professional dancers from past and present took to the ballroom, joined by judge Derek Hough and co-host Julianne Hough, to honor Len. The moving tribute, set to "Moon River" by Henry Mancini, was choreographed by Val Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson, showcasing the beauty and grace that Len championed throughout his career. The emotional atmosphere was palpable, with Len's wife, Sue Barrett, watching from the audience, deeply touched by the outpouring of love and respect for her late husband.
Len Goodman passed away on April 24, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer, just days before his 79th birthday. He was remembered as a "much-loved husband, father, and grandfather" who will be sorely missed. His legacy continues to resonate with fans around the world, reminding us of the joy and passion he brought to dance and the lives he touched during his remarkable career.
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Biography
Len Goodman was born on April 25, 1944, in Bethnal Green, London, England. He began dancing at a young age and quickly excelled, winning numerous championships throughout his career. His charming personality and expertise in ballroom dance led him to become a world-renowned dance judge.
| Personal Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Len Goodman |
| Birthdate | April 25, 1944 |
| Death | April 24, 2023 |
| Occupation | Ballroom Dancer, Judge |
| Spouses | Sue Barrett, Cherry Kingston |
Sue Barrett
Len Goodman met Sue Barrett at a golf club in 2002, and their shared passion for dance brought them together. Sue is a dance instructor who runs a ballroom dancing school out of their home in Kent. Despite her connection to the dance world, Sue preferred to remain out of the public eye, a characteristic that Len admired.
After a decade of companionship, Len and Sue married in a secret ceremony in December 2012. Len often expressed how happy Sue made him and joked about their life together, highlighting the joyful moments they shared. Their bond was strong, with Len describing Sue as the woman he wanted to spend his life with, showcasing the deep love they had for each other.
Cherry Kingston
Before marrying Sue, Len was previously married to Cherry Kingston in 1972. Cherry was not only Len's partner in life but also his dance partner. Their marriage lasted for several years until it began to dissolve after Len's retirement from competitive dancing.
Len often reflected on their time together, noting that dancing had been the glue that held their relationship intact. However, after retiring, Cherry began to seek a different path, leading to their eventual separation and divorce in 1987.
Lesley
After his marriage to Cherry, Len found love again with a woman named Lesley. This relationship blossomed while Len was still separated from Cherry. Lesley was described as the ex-wife of a notable figure in the music industry, and their romance lasted until the early 1980s.
Len shared that his experiences with love and fatherhood shaped him into the man he became, emphasizing the importance of family and connections in his life. He often spoke about how children give life meaning, illustrating his deep appreciation for the role of family in his journey.
Len Goodman will always be remembered not just for his contributions to the world of dance, but for the love he shared with those around him. His legacy continues to inspire dancers and fans alike.
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