Len Goodman, the esteemed English dancer and judge, passed away on Saturday in a hospice in Kent, southern England, following a prolonged battle with bone cancer. He was surrounded by family at the time of his passing, according to his manager, Jackie Gill, who shared the news with CNN on Monday.

Goodman, born in London in 1944, began dancing at the age of 19 and enjoyed a successful career as a professional dancer before transitioning to television. He served as the head judge on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing from its inception in 2004 until his departure in 2016. Shirley Ballas succeeded him on the show. Goodman was also a beloved judge on the American version, Dancing With the Stars, alongside Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli.

David Davie reflected on Goodman’s immense impact, stating, “He was loved by people of all ages and made everyone feel like part of his family. Len was the heart of Strictly’s success.” His passing leaves a void deeply felt by his family, friends, and fans worldwide.