Dancing with the Stars judge Loraine Barry has paid tribute to her "kind hearted, happy and funny" pal Len Goodman, who died aged 78, after battling bone cancer.
His agent Jackie Gill broke the news of his passing on Monday morning, confirming the sad news of his death in a statement.
Jackie wrote: "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."
READ MORE - Strictly's Anton Du Beke pays heartfelt tribute to 'wonderful' Len Goodman
Paying tribute to the UK star, head judge on Dancing with the Stars Loraine told us: "I’m here in Florida and I woke up this morning to the very sad news that Len passed away.
"I have great memories of Len as a dancer, as a teacher, and as an adjudicator on Strictly.
"The many pictures you see of Len you see a beautiful smiling face. Len was a kindhearted, happy, fun and so so funny man. We will miss him dearly and remember him fondly. RIP Len."
The dancer and choreographer died on Saturday night at a hospice in Kent, surrounded by his family. He had been diagnosed with bone cancer.
Goodman began dancing at 19, winning various competitions including the British Championships in Blackpool in his late 20s, after which he retired.
Known for his warm humour and passion for Latin and Ballroom, Goodman was head judge on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing from its launch in 2004 to 2016.
His score call of "se-ven!" became his catchphrase, cementing his popularity with Strictly fans.
He was replaced as head judge on the BBC show by Shirley Ballas.
Goodman also served as head judge on Dancing with the Stars, the US version of the show, for more than 15 years until announcing his retirement in November last year.
He said at the time that he wanted to "spend more time with my grandchildren and family" back in the UK.
Paying tribute, Strictly presenter Claudia Winkleman wrote on Twitter: "I'm so sad about Len. He was one of a kind, a brilliant and kind man. Full of twinkle, warmth and wit. Sending all love to his family and friends."
Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood described Goodman as a "gorgeous colleague and dear friend," writing: "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 Sue and family.
"Len Goody Goodman is what I always called him and 'It's a ten from Len & seveeeeern' will live with me forever. RIP Len."
Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli wrote on Instagram: "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. There will never be anyone like you. We will miss you."
Strictly presenter Tess Daly said Goodman "left an impression on everyone he met" and she would "never forget the fun we had on set".
In an Instagram post, Daly 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.
"My sincere condolences to Sue and all the family. Rest in peace Len."
Buckingham Palace said the Queen Consort, who had met Goodman on several occasions and danced with him in 2019 was "saddened" to learn of his death.
BBC director-general Tim Davie also paid tribute, crediting Goodman for his large part in Strictly's success.
He said in a statement: "Len Goodman was a wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions. He appealed to all ages and felt like a member of everyone's family.
"Len was at the very heart of Strictly's success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family."
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