Strictly judge Len Goodman seen hugging Bruno Tonioli to celebrate his retirement in touching last pic
STRICTLY judge Len Goodman was pictured hugging Bruno Tonioli as they celebrated his retirement in a touching last picture.
The ex-dancer sadly passed away on Saturday following a battle with bone cancer.
The last time he was pictured was in November last year with fellow judge and pal Bruno Tonioli.
The cute snap shows the pair hugging as they celebrated Len's retirement from Dancing With The Stars.
Bruno wrote at the time: "Celebrating the one and only ballroom legend Len Goodman you are the best my friend best partner I could have wished for @dancingwiththestars @bbcstrictly what an incredible adventure we sheared happy retirement.
"Love always Bruno."
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Aged 78, Len had been in a hospice in Kent when he passed "peacefully".
In an emotional final speech on Strictly, Len said: "I will miss everything about the show I promise you.
"I will miss turning up and the anticipation and whats going to occur.
"I’ll miss the three best judges on any types of these shows.
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"This whole thing is like a big machine with cogs every cog has to work to make it happen.
"I’m going to miss it all."
Tributes have since poured in for the star after his death was announced.
His agent Jackie Gill said in a statement: "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."
Buckingham Palace said the Queen Consort was saddened to learn of his death.
"Her Majesty was saddened to hear the news," a spokesperson said.
Piers Morgan wrote: "More very sad news from the world of entertainment.
"RIP Len Goodman, 78 - welder, dancer, judge, and devoted cricket & West Ham fan.
"Always had a laugh with Len, and swapped a few strong opinions. A quintessential Londoner and a top bloke."
The BBC shared a heart-warming statement for the "wonderful" and "warm entertainer".
The broadcaster's press office tweeted: "Len Goodman was a wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions.
"He appealed to all ages and felt like a member of everyone's family.
"Len was at the very heart of Strictly's success.
"He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family."
Journalist and presenter Dan Walker added: "So sad to hear about the death of Len Goodman.
"He was an incredible man & an extraordinary talent.
"Loved making telly with him, being daft with him, playing golf with him & will never forget the little tips he would send every week on Strictly.
"All my love to his family."
Strictly presenter Claudia Winkleman said: "I'm so sad about Len.
"He was one of a kind, a brilliant and kind man.
"Full of twinkle, warmth and wit.
"Sending all love to his family and friends. X"
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Len was a judge on Strictly when it re-launched in 2004 and was a firm fan favourite thanks to his wry comments.
He also appeared on the US version of the show, Dancing With the Stars from 2005 until 2022.
