Dancing with the stars judge Len Goodman bids farewell to the ballroom competition series.
During Monday’s broadcast, Goodman announced that this season would be his final as a judge.
“This will be my last season to rate on Dancing with the stars. I’ve been with the show since it started in 2005 and it was a great pleasure to be a part of such a great show. But I’ve decided I want to spend more time with my grandchildren and family in Britain,” Goodman said. “I couldn’t thank you enough the Dancing with the stars family. It’s been such a great experience for me.”
After Goodman’s announcement, the judge received a standing ovation.
“You have inspired generations of dancers around the world by your passion and by your expertise and by your laser-focused eye and they will continue that commitment to excellence forever. Thank you very much. A living legend,” said presenter Tyra Banks.
Goodman has been the lead celebrity judge in ABC’s ballroom competition since the show made its debut on ABC in 2005. He has judged alongside colleagues. DWTS mainstays Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli. Dancing with the stars pro Derek Hough later joined as a judge.
In front of DWTSGoodman previously served as head judge on Strictly Come Dancingthe original UK version of Dancing with the stars. He has also served as a judge at the World and British Championships.
Goodman has been recognized for his dance performance and has won multiple awards, including the British Exhibition and second place in the Exhibition World Championships. Other awards included the British Rising Star Award, the Carl Allen Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Goodman also runs the Goodman Dance Academy, a long-running dance school in Kent, England.
