Len Goodman has broken fans’ hearts by waltzing away from the smash hit UK TV show Strictly Come Dancing after more than a decade on the panel.
The veteran performer has been with the popular reality TV show since it hit our screens in 2004, but he has now confirmed his shock departure.
Len, 72, has confirmed this year’s series will be his last as he wants to hand the role of head judge to a younger replacement.
He said in a statement: “In 2004, I was asked to take part in a brand new BBC Saturday night show and who would have thought me, old Len Goodman, would still be part of this amazing series more than 10 years on.
“This adventure began when I was 60 and now that I’ve reached my 70s, I’ve decided after this year it’s time to hand the role of Head Judge to someone else.”
Louise Rainbow, Executive Producer of Strictly Come Dancing, expressed her sadness about Len’s departure, but insisted TV bosses plan to make this series the best yet.
She said: “We are absolutely delighted that [hosts] Tess, Claudia and our judges are all returning for another year. Whilst we will be sad to say goodbye to Len, as our way of saying thank you, we are all determined to make this series the most spectacular, most glittery and entertaining yet.”
Len has devoted the majority of his life to dancing, spending years as a professional on the ballroom competition circuit before joining Strictly in 2004.
He has remained on the panel for 12 years and also judged on the US version on the show, Dancing With The Stars.
Len’s ‘Lexit’ is the latest blow for the dancing show following the departure of beloved host Bruce Forsyth.
The veteran entertainer had been with Strictly since the beginning, but stepped down from his role as host of the live shows in April, 2014.
Awww, so sad to see him go!
