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Sam Cook

Britain's Got Talent's Bruno Tonioli says his 'heart is broken' as Strictly stars remember Len Goodman

Tributes have been pouring in for Strictly Come Dancing star Len Goodman, who has died aged 78. His spokesman confirmed the news on Monday, April 24 - read more about that here.

All across social media, people have been sharing their sadness at Len’s passing - including his former Strictly co-stars. Len appeared as a head judge on the BBC dancing competition between 2004-2016.

While on Strictly, Len became renowned for his warmth and generosity with the show’s hosts and contestants. He was known for catchphrases such as “Seven!” and “From Len, a 10!” For the latest TV and showbiz news sign up to our newsletter here.

Read more: Tributes to Len Goodman pour in as Craig Revel Horwood, Susanna Reid, Piers Morgan and more remember star

Len’s fellow judge (and current Britain’s Got Talent judge) Bruno Tonioli paid tribute on social media. Sharing a photo of them both, he wrote: “Heart broken my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom legend #lengoodman passed away. I will treasure the memory of our incredible adventures and hundreds of shows we did together @bbcstrictly @dancingwiththestars they will never be anyone like you we will miss you.”

Len Goodman was Strictly Come Dancing's original head judge (BBC)

Bruno's Britain's Got Talent co-star (and former Strictly judge herself) commented: "It’s a very sad day, thinking of you Bruno, rest in peace Len, a true gentleman, one of a kind!"

Craig Revel Horwood, who started on the show when Len did, wrote: “I’ve just woken up to the sad news that my gorgeous colleague and dear friend Len Goodman has passed away. My heart and love go out to his lovely wife Sue and family. Len ‘goody’ Goodman is what I called him and “it’s a ten from Len and seveeeeern” will live with me forever. Rest in peace Len.”

Also paying tribute was former Strictly judge Darcey Bussell, who appeared on the show between 2012-2018. She shared: “Very sad to hear about the death of dear wonderful gentleman, Len Goodman. My heart goes out to his family & dear Sue. He gave me such support on my time at Strictly. I feel so lucky to have worked with such a professional, funny loveable man. Thank you for the special memories x”

Tess and Claudia paid tribute to Len (PA)

Elsewhere, Strictly’s hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman echoed similar sentiments. Tess wrote: “So very sad to hear the news today of the passing of our Len Goodman. A beautiful man, genuine, warm and humble, who left an impression on everyone he met. I’ll never forget the fun we had on set, his love and passion for dancing and that wonderfully cheeky smile lit up the screen. You were never a 7 for me, Len you were always a 10.”

The Traitors’ Claudia simply said: “A kind and brilliant man. Full of twinkle, warmth and wit. Sending so much love to his family and friends. We love you Len xx”

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