Susanna Reid 'devastated' as she shares emotional tribute to late Strictly star

Susanna and Ed Balls paid tribute on Good Morning Britain

Senior Features Writer

April 25, 2023Apr 25, 2023, 11:04 AM GMT+1

Susanna Reid has said she is "devastated" to hear of the sad passing of former Strictly Come Dancing head judge Len Goodman.

Presenting Tuesday morning's edition of Good Morning Britain, the broadcaster, who competed on the BBC ballroom and Latin competition herself in 2011, paid an emotional tribute to the dancer and TV judge who passed away last week from bone cancer aged 78.

WATCH: Susanna Reid paid an emotional tribute to Len Goodman

Susanna began the show by turning to her co-presenter, Ed Balls, also a former Strictly alumni, saying: "Just devastating news about Len Goodman. I hadn't even realised he was that poorly and then all of a sudden he was gone. What a remarkable man."

After explaining to viewers about Len's early life and journey into a dance career, she continued: "He was a phenomenal head judge, wasn't he? He was so reassuring but also he was so focused on the technical detail."

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Ed Balls and Susanna Reid speak to Erin Boag and Brendan Cole on sofa on GMB — Ed Balls and Susanna Reid also spoke to Erin Boag and Brendan Cole to remember Len

Susanna, who was partnered with Kevin Clifton on Strictly, then went on to speak personally about her experience with Len from her time as a contestant: "Len was the judge you wanted to impress, and he had this mischievous turn of phrase."

Ed then shared this memory of Len from his time on the show in 2016 when he competed alongside Katya Jones: "He always was positive first before he hit you with his critique."

Len Goodman sits at judges desk on DWTS — Len Goodman passed away aged 78

The former Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer added: "The best line for me was, he said: 'Ed you're not the greatest dancer, but you're the people's champion'. He was the most generous, caring, thoughtful person, an utter professional, always got the heart to what people were thinking."

Len's death was confirmed by his agent on Monday in a statement. "It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78," it read. "A much-loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him."

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