Len Goodman made Strictly Come Dancing an institution – he changed light entertainment for ever ✒️ JNRaeside
launched in 2004, Len Goodman took his seat as head judge and was instantly deferred to as keeper of the rule book on technical precision. With his vast knowledge and eagle eye for detail, he commanded respect from professionals and audiences alike. Little is known about how this modest dance teacher from Dartford in Kent found himself starring on Saturday night television, but those of us watching soon understood his expertise and how lightly he wore it.
He had wisdom and a quiet self-assurance that never came across as arrogance; he had no time for flim-flam but always offered gentle encouragement if a contestant looked like they were floundering or losing heart. But if you danced a Paso with no Paso in it, you’d know about it. Because Goodman knew about it like no one else.
As the show became a Saturday night institution, Goodman’s personality was given more space to flourish, and the judges’ comments were given more screen time. Canny producers began to realise the value of their judges as major characters in the drama, not just side players to the main action.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Strictly's Len Goodman dies aged 78 after bone cancer battleSTRICTLY Come Dancing judge Len Goodman has died aged 78 after a battle with bone cancer. The ex-dancer had been in a hospice in Kent before he tragically passed away on Saturday. A spokeswoman sai…
Read more »
Strictly Come Dancing favourite Len Goodman dies aged 78The 78-year-old's family confirmed the BBC One star had passed after a 'short illness
Read more »
Strictly's Len Goodman dies aged 78 from bone cancerFormer Strictly Come Dancing head judge Len Goodman died over the weekend aged 78 surrounded by his family, a statement said
Read more »