Former “Dancing With the Stars” host Tom Bergeron shared a touching tribute to late judge Len Goodman after fellow judge Derek Hough posted an emotional video remembering the beloved ballroom expert. Bergeron’s comment on Hough’s Instagram post revealed the deep affection he continues to hold for Goodman, who passed away in April 2023.
The heartfelt exchange occurred as the dance competition prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary, bringing back memories of the show’s early years when Bergeron and Goodman worked alongside each other for nearly fifteen seasons. Their professional relationship evolved into a genuine friendship over the years they spent together in the ballroom.
Bergeron’s response to the post was simple yet powerful, writing, “That lovely man will be front & center on my mind tomorrow. I adored him.”
The timing of this tribute exchange is particularly meaningful as Bergeron prepares to return to the show as a guest judge for the anniversary episode, marking his first appearance since his departure in 2020.
Celebrating a Lasting Friendship
Bergeron has consistently honored Goodman’s memory since the judge’s passing, sharing multiple tributes on social media. When Goodman died following his battle with bone cancer, Bergeron posted a photo collage with the simple caption “A good man, indeed.”
The former host has spoken extensively about what made Goodman special both on and off camera. “That smile, that twinkle in the eye. Grouchiness that he would kind of ratchet up for TV,” Bergeron told Entertainment Tonight when reflecting on his colleague’s personality.
He highlighted how Goodman’s television persona differed from his genuine character. “The grouchy part was really more show than his actual personality, I think,” Bergeron explained, revealing the softer side that cast members experienced behind the scenes.
Their working relationship spanned from 2005 to 2019, during which time they witnessed the show’s evolution from an unexpected hit to a television institution. Bergeron has credited those early years with creating a special family atmosphere among the cast and crew.
Remembering His Impact
Goodman’s influence on “Dancing With the Stars” extended far beyond his role as head judge. Bergeron has noted how the British ballroom expert maintained the show’s connection to traditional dance standards even as the format evolved over time.
“I think that over the years of the show, you can see that it was his critique that would tend to be the most specific in terms of ballroom style,” Bergeron shared with Entertainment Tonight, emphasizing Goodman’s commitment to authentic dance education.
The Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy now bears the late judge’s name, a fitting tribute that Bergeron has acknowledged with characteristic humor. “I used to make fun of that trophy all the time, but now it’s got Len’s name on it, so that’s kind of sweet,” he told ET in July.
As the show celebrates two decades on television, tributes like Hough’s video continue to honor Goodman’s memory among cast members and fans of the series.
