Len Goodman, the iconic ballroom dancer and television judge, left an indelible mark on the dance world before his passing in 2023. Known for his charismatic presence on Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing with the Stars, fans often search for details about Len Goodman’s net worth, age, salary, wife Sue Goodman, height, weight, and married life. This article dives deep into his life, offering fresh insights, updated information, and a personal perspective on his legacy, answering your questions about his financial success, personal relationships, and physical stats.
Early Life and Rise to Fame: Len Goodman’s Age and Background
Born on April 25, 1944, in Bethnal Green, London, Len Goodman was 78 years old at the time of his passing on April 22, 2023. Growing up in a working-class family, his early years were shaped by modest means. His grandfather, a costermonger, sold fruit and vegetables, and young Len often helped at the market. At six, his family moved to Blackfen, where he attended Westwood Secondary Modern School, excelling in cricket. Unlike most dancers, Goodman didn’t start dancing until age 19, prompted by a doctor’s advice to aid recovery from a foot injury sustained playing football. This late start, a unique angle in his story, highlights his resilience and adaptability.
Goodman’s passion for dance blossomed, leading him to become a professional ballroom dancer. By his late 20s, he had won the prestigious British Championships at Blackpool, a milestone that marked his ascent in the competitive dance world. His journey from an apprentice welder to a dance icon showcases a remarkable pivot, driven by determination and talent.
Len Goodman’s Net Worth and Salary: A Financial Legacy
At the time of his death, Len Goodman’s net worth was estimated at $18 million, amassed through a multifaceted career as a dancer, judge, coach, and television personality. His primary income came from his roles as head judge on Strictly Come Dancing (2004–2016) and Dancing with the Stars (2005–2022). Reports suggest he earned $250,000 per season on Strictly Come Dancing and up to $1.2 million per season on Dancing with the Stars by his later years, with an estimated $50,000 per episode in the U.S. show’s peak seasons.
Beyond television, Goodman owned the Goodman Dance Academy in Dartford, Kent, a thriving business that contributed significantly to his wealth. His dance school, still operational, trains aspiring dancers and remains a testament to his commitment to the art. Additional income streams included books like Better Late Than Never: My Story, public speaking engagements, and dance workshops. In 2024, his widow, Sue Goodman, and son, James Goodman, inherited £4.6 million from the liquidation of his private company, including £2 million in property and £2.6 million in cash, underscoring his financial foresight.
Married Life and Dating History: Len Goodman and Sue Goodman
Len Goodman’s married life was a blend of romance and resilience. He married Sue Barrett, a dance teacher, in 2012 after dating for over a decade. The couple wed in a surprise ceremony at Mosimann’s, a London dining club, with Len describing Sue as “my wonderful Sue” who transformed his self-described selfish nature into one of devotion. Their marriage, lasting until his death, was childless but marked by mutual support, especially during Len’s battle with bone cancer.
Before Sue, Goodman was married to Cherry Kingston, his dance partner, from 1972 to 1987. Their marriage ended when Cherry left for a French millionaire, a betrayal that deeply hurt Len. He later had a long-term relationship with Lesley, with whom he had a son, James William Goodman, born in 1981. James, now a professional dancer, teaches at the Goodman Dance Academy, carrying forward his father’s legacy.
Height, Weight, and Physical Presence
Len Goodman’s height was 6 feet 0.5 inches (184 cm), and his weight was approximately 80 kg (176 lbs), giving him a commanding yet approachable presence on television. His tall frame and warm demeanor made him a fan favorite, with his sharp critiques softened by a grandfatherly charm. His physicality, honed by years of competitive dancing, remained evident even in his later years, as he maintained an active lifestyle through dance and sports like cricket.
Career Highlights: From Dancer to Television Icon
Goodman’s television career began in 2004 with Strictly Come Dancing, where his expertise and wit made him a household name. He judged alongside luminaries like Bruno Tonioli and Craig Revel Horwood, earning praise for his fair yet firm critiques. In 2005, he joined Dancing with the Stars, becoming a staple until his retirement in 2022 to spend time with family. His catchphrase, “SEVEEEEN!”, became iconic, reflecting his passion for precision in dance.
Beyond judging, Goodman hosted shows like Holiday of My Lifetime and Titanic with Len Goodman, leveraging his welder background to connect with historical narratives. His 2006 and 2007 Emmy nominations for Outstanding Reality/Competition Program highlight his impact. The renaming of the Dancing with the Stars Mirrorball Trophy to the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy in 2023 cemented his legacy.
Unique Insights: A Personal Reflection
As a lifelong dance enthusiast, I’ve watched Goodman’s judging style evolve from strict to nurturing, reflecting his deep love for ballroom dancing. His ability to balance critique with encouragement inspired countless dancers, including my own experience in amateur ballroom competitions. Len’s emphasis on technique over flashiness taught me the value of discipline in dance, a lesson echoed by students at his academy. His story of starting dance at 19 resonates with late bloomers, proving passion can triumph over timing.
Len Goodman Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Leonard Gordon Goodman |
| Date of Birth | April 25, 1944 |
| Date of Death | April 22, 2023 |
| Age at Death | 78 years |
| Birthplace | Bethnal Green, London, England |
| Height | 6 feet 0.5 inches (184 cm) |
| Weight | 80 kg (176 lbs) |
| Nationality | British |
| Profession | Ballroom Dancer, Dance Judge, Coach, Television Personality |
| Net Worth | $18 million (at time of death) |
| Salary (Peak) | $1.2 million per season (Dancing with the Stars), $250,000 per season (Strictly) |
| Spouse | Sue Barrett (m. 2012–2023), Cherry Kingston (m. 1972–1987) |
| Children | James William Goodman (b. 1981) |
| Notable Shows | Strictly Come Dancing (2004–2016), Dancing with the Stars (2005–2022) |
| Dance School | Goodman Dance Academy, Dartford, Kent |
| Awards | Carl Alan Award, Emmy Nominations (2006, 2007) |
| Hobbies | Cricket, Football (West Ham United supporter) |
Sue Goodman: A Private yet Supportive Partner
Sue Goodman, born August 18, 1963, was 59 years old in 2023 and is now 62 in 2025. A former competitive dancer specializing in Latin styles, she transitioned to teaching, maintaining a low profile despite her husband’s fame. Standing at 5 feet 3 inches and weighing around 55 kg, Sue’s petite frame belies her strength as a dancer. Her estimated net worth is $2 million, derived from her teaching career and shared assets with Len. Her absence from social media underscores her preference for privacy, focusing on family and dance.
Legacy and Impact in 2025
In 2025, Len Goodman’s influence endures through his dance school and the continued popularity of Strictly and Dancing with the Stars. The Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy serves as a tribute, with a 2023 Dancing with the Stars waltz to “Moon River” honoring his memory, attended by Sue. His story inspires dancers to pursue passion at any age, and his financial success reflects a life of hard work and versatility.
For more on Len Goodman’s life, visit his Wikipedia page or follow updates on X. Explore his dance legacy at the Goodman Dance Academy.
