As Strictly fans reel at the news of Len Goodman's death, which was confirmed by his agent on Monday, April 24, it appears the much-loved star predicted when he thought he would die. According to a report, Len speculated about his death just six months prior to his passing.
The former Strictly Come Dancing head judge died on Saturday evening following a short battle with bone cancer. He had been staying in a hospice in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Len's agent, Jackie Gill, confirmed the sad news, writing: "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 the Mirror, he would have turned 79 on Tuesday and, in an interview in 2022, Len revealed that he expected to die in 2023 because his dad passed away suddenly when he was 79.
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The star said he was retiring last year to spend more time with his wife Sue and their grandchildren, Alice, seven, and Jack, four. However, in an interview last year with the MailOnline, he was quoted as saying: "My dad had the right idea, he loved gardening and he had a stroke while he was out in the garden. He was 79 so if I go the way of my dad, that'll be next year.
"I don't make a fuss about stuff like that. It's like when you have a car — you keep it serviced but even so, you'll have some trouble with your carburettor and you'll need to get it fixed, and eventually the whole thing will conk out, and there you go. It's more about the journey, and mine has been lovely."
Tributes have flooded in from all sectors including Royals, politicians, and celebs as well as Len's army of loyal fans. Following the announcement, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and the Queen Consort both said they were saddened by the news. Craig Revel Horwood says he is in mourning for his friend as he playfully remembered his catchphrases from the BBC show. He tweeted: "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 said he will “treasure” the memories of the “incredible adventures and hundreds of shows” he took part in with his fellow judge. Dancer Brendan Cole said on This Morning : "The smile, the energy he bought, Strictly is not the same without him. He was an amazing man."
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