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Len Goodman’s Dancing With The Stars team were reportedly unaware that the former head judge was battling bone cancer.
It was announced on Monday April 24 that the professional dancer has died aged 78, with several celebrities paying tribute to the TV personality.
In a statement, his agent 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.’
According to reports, Goodman’s co-stars on the US edition of Strictly Come Dancing didn’t know that he was battling a cancer diagnosis.
A source shared: ‘Len was such a pro that the moment the cameras and light came on, he became the consummate showman.’
Len Goodman announced his retirement from Dancing With The Stars in 2017 (Picture: Getty)
The insider added to The Sun: ‘The news about Len caught many of the production team by surprise today.’
Last November, Goodman announced that he was retiring from Dancing With The Stars after 17 years.
He had been with the show since it began in 2005, but has made the decision to step down in order to be able to spend more time with his grandchildren in the UK.
He revealed that the current series of Dancing With The Stars at the time, will be his last.
The DWTS team hailed the late entertainer as a ‘showman.’ (Picture: ABC via Getty Images)
Goodman made the announcement during the show, telling 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. 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.’
Metro.co.uk has reached out to ABC for comment.
Dancing with the Stars is available to stream on Disney Plus in the US.
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The former head judge died aged 78.