Len Goodman Biography, Net Worth and Wife

Len Goodman Biography, Net Worth and Wife

Len Goodman is a well-known ballroom dancer, choreographer, and television personality who gained fame as a judge on the popular TV show "Strictly Come Dancing" in the UK and its American counterpart "Dancing with the Stars". Born on April 25, 1944, in Bethnal Green, East London, England, Goodman has had an illustrious career in dance and entertainment, spanning over five decades. In this biography, we will take a closer look at his life, career, achievements, net worth, and personal life, including his wife and family.

Early Life and Career

Len Goodman was born Leonard Gordon Goodman to parents Leonard and Evelyn Goodman. His father worked as a truck driver, and his mother was a dressmaker. Goodman grew up in Bethnal Green, East London, where he attended the Tollington Grammar School. He was interested in dancing from a young age and started taking lessons at the age of 19. He soon became a proficient dancer and started teaching dance classes to supplement his income.

In the early 1970s, Goodman started his own dance school, "The Goodman Dance Centre," in Dartford, Kent. He became well-known in the local dance scene, and his school became a popular destination for dancers of all ages and skill levels. In the 1980s, Goodman started competing professionally in ballroom dance competitions, and he soon became one of the top-ranked dancers in the UK. He won the British Championships in both the Ballroom and Latin-American dance categories four times and was a finalist in the World Championships.

Television Career

Goodman's television career began in the late 1990s when he started appearing on the BBC's "Come Dancing" as a judge. He later became a judge on the show's successor, "Strictly Come Dancing," when it first aired in 2004. The show quickly became a massive hit in the UK, and Goodman's no-nonsense critiques and humorous quips made him a fan favorite. Goodman's popularity on "Strictly Come Dancing" led to him being invited to be a judge on the American version of the show, "Dancing with the Stars," when it debuted in 2005.

Goodman's judging style on "Dancing with the Stars" was similar to his approach on "Strictly Come Dancing," and he quickly became a favorite among the show's fans. He remained a judge on both shows for over a decade, earning a reputation as one of the most respected and knowledgeable judges in the ballroom dance world.

Apart from "Strictly Come Dancing" and "Dancing with the Stars," Goodman has also appeared on other television shows, including "Who Do You Think You Are?" "The One Show," and "Top Gear." He also hosted his own documentary series, "Len Goodman's Dance Band Days," which explored the history of dance music.

Len Goodman Net Worth

Len Goodman's net worth is estimated to be around $12 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. His earnings come from his various ventures, including his dance school, television appearances, and other business ventures. He is one of the highest-paid judges on "Strictly Come Dancing" and "Dancing with the Stars" and has also appeared in several commercials and advertisements over the years.

Personal Life

Len Goodman has been married twice. His first marriage was to Cherry Kingston, a fellow dancer, in 1972. The couple had one son together, James, before they divorced in 1987. Goodman later married his longtime girlfriend, Sue Barrett, in 2012. The couple had been together for over a decade before tying the knot.

Len Goodman Wife

Goodman has been open about his struggles with skin cancer in the past. He was diagnosed with the disease in 2009 and underwent surgery to have a cancerous spot removed from his forehead. He has since been an advocate for skin cancer awareness and encourages people to take precautions when spending time in the sun.

In addition to his love of dance, Goodman is also an avid golfer and has played in several charity golf tournaments over the years. He also enjoys gardening and spending time with his family.

Legacy and Awards

Len Goodman's contribution to the world of dance and entertainment has been recognized with several awards and honors. In 2006, he was awarded the Carl Alan Award for his outstanding contribution to dance. In 2009, he received the Variety Club of Great Britain Award for his services to entertainment.

Goodman was also awarded an honorary Doctorate of Arts by the University of Kent in 2015, in recognition of his contribution to the arts and his local community. In 2016, he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the Queen's Birthday Honours List for his services to dance and charity.

Goodman's legacy in the ballroom dance world is also evident in the many dancers he has trained and mentored over the years. His dance school, The Goodman Dance Centre, has produced several successful dancers and choreographers, including Karen Hardy, who won the sixth series of "Strictly Come Dancing," and Ian Waite, a former professional dancer on the show.

Conclusion

Len Goodman's life and career are a testament to his passion for dance and his dedication to his craft. His success as a dancer, choreographer, and television personality has made him a household name, both in the UK and around the world. His no-nonsense approach to judging and his quick wit have made him a fan favorite on "Strictly Come Dancing" and "Dancing with the Stars."

Goodman's contributions to the arts and his local community have been recognized with several awards and honors, including an MBE from the Queen. His legacy in the ballroom dance world is also evident in the many dancers he has trained and mentored over the years.

Len Goodman's net worth, as estimated at $12 million, reflects his success and his many business ventures over the years. Despite his success, Goodman remains grounded and continues to be passionate about dance, golf, and spending time with his family.