Len Goodman dies at 78: 'DWTS' judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli pay tribute to 'mentor'

Former "Dancing with the Stars" judge Len Goodman is being remembered by his colleagues Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and more following his death.

Goodman died "peacefully" Saturday with his wife Sue Barrett and son James, from a previous relationship, by his bedside, his manager Jackie Gill confirmed to USA TODAY in a statement Monday. He was 78.

"DWTS" judge Inaba shared a video compilation of all their shared moments on the celebrity ballroom dancing show. "A Dancer. A teacher. A refined gentleman. A wonderful storyteller. A special soul. A mentor. A family man. And… A treasured friend," she began in the caption of her tribute on Monday.

Goodman, who was head judge of "Dancing With the Stars" since its 2005 premiere, announced in November "with a touch of sadness" that the season would be his last on the judge's panel after 17 years. The show moved to Disney+ in the fall of 2022 after 30 seasons on ABC. 

'Adored by millions':Len Goodman, former 'Dancing with the Stars' judge, dies at 78

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"Saying goodbye at the end of last season broke my heart," Inaba continued. "But today’s news has shattered it all over again. I can’t believe that you’re gone."

The "DWTS" judge said she will "cherish our memories and hold them close, while I join so many others in mourning your loss."

"Thank you for all that you shared with us. Your humor, your wisdom, your wit and your truth. Until we meet again…Rest In Peace Len," Inaba's tribute concluded. 

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Fellow longtime "DWTS" judge Tonioli shared a photo on Instagram hugging Goodman. "Heart broken my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom legend #lengoodman passed away," he wrote Monday.

"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," Tonioli concluded, adding several heart emojis.

Tom Bergeron, who served as the original "DWTS" host for 15 years before his firing in 2020, shared a graphic of various moments with Goodman on the show and behind-the-scenes. "A Good Man, indeed. #rip," Bergeron wrote Monday.

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'Strictly Come Dancing' remembers Len Goodman

A former professional ballroom dancer and British champion, Goodman was also head judge on "Strictly Come Dancing" for 12 years from its launch on the BBC in 2004. Like "DWTS," the dance competition pairs celebrities with professional dance partners. It was a surprise hit and has become one of the network’s most popular shows.

Goodman's colleagues from BBC's "Strictly Come Dancing" also paid tribute to the late ballroom legend. "Len was at the very heart of Strictly's success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family," BBC Director-General Tim Davie said in a statement Monday. 

The live tour account for "Strictly Come Dancing" wrote on Twitter Monday, "We are saddened to hear about the passing of our beloved Len Goodman. Len was a fabulous Judge, a fierce friend and a true gentleman. Our thoughts are with his friends and family."

"We will miss you Mr Goodman," they added.

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Craig Revel Horwood, who was the original and longest-serving judge on "Strictly Come Dancing," tweeted, "Len Goody Goodman is what I always called him and 'It’s a ten from Len & seveeeeern' will live with me forever. RIP Len."

The show's lead singer Tommy Blaize also shared a tribute on Twitter. "A very sad day for me and all 'Strictly' fans. The world has lost a true gentleman. Len Goodman you are a legend," he wrote. 

"I will sincerely miss you. Always kind to everyone especially the band and singers. RIP Len. Love to Sue and family," Blaize added. 

Contributing: Saleen Martin, USA TODAY; The Associated Press