Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Bruno Tonioli has revealed that his friendship with the late Len Goodman was far from perfect. Tonioli, who joined the BBC dance competition in 2004, recently spoke about his experience on the Kate Thornton podcast. He discussed how he was initially approached by BBC bosses to become a judge on a new show called Strictly Come Dancing. During the interview, Tonioli also reflected on his relationship with Goodman, who sadly passed away in April 2023 at the age of 78 due to bone cancer.
Reflecting on their time together, Tonioli admitted that it was a challenging year for him. He emphasized that no one is perfect, including himself and Goodman, who he described as a difficult man. Despite their differences, Tonioli emphasized the importance of their blunt and honest conversations, which provided a sense of support and stability. He also shared that they would often tease and make fun of each other, creating a bond that still remains with him.
When Goodman’s death was confirmed, Tonioli took to Instagram to pay tribute to his dear friend and partner of 19 years. He shared a throwback photo of the two of them together and expressed his heartbreak over the loss. Tonioli acknowledged Goodman as a ballroom legend and expressed his gratitude for the incredible adventures and shows they shared on Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing With The Stars.
Len Goodman was one of the original judges on Strictly Come Dancing when it first premiered in 2004. He remained on the panel until his departure in 2016. Goodman also served as a judge on Dancing With The Stars from 2005 to 2012. Alongside Goodman, Arlene Phillips was also an original judge on Strictly Come Dancing. However, she left the show in 2009 after five years and was replaced by Alesha Dixon.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Phillips reflected on her departure from the show and revealed that it significantly impacted her confidence. She expressed her resentment towards the BBC and suggested that ageism played a role in her exit. Phillips’ departure sparked national interest, with Labour minister Harriet Harman even raising the issue of ageism in parliament.
Despite the speculation, the BBC has consistently denied that ageism was the reason for Phillips’ departure. In a 2022 interview with The Times, Phillips expressed her frustration at never receiving a clear answer regarding her exit. She mentioned that she was on a one-year contract and could be let go, but the exact reasons were never disclosed to her.
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