- Len Goodman memorial artwork to be unveiled in Dartford, celebrating his legacy
- Tribute features nod to his famous "seven" catchphrase
- Artwork will celebrate his life and dance legacy outside his former studio
A public artwork commemorating the life and legacy of renowned ballroom dancer and former Strictly Come Dancing head judge Len Goodman is set to be unveiled in Kent. Dartford Borough Council has commissioned the tribute, which will be located outside The Goodman Dance Academy in Market Street, a studio founded by Goodman in the 1970s.
According to Goodman’s wife, Sue Barrett, and son, James, the artwork will be a fitting celebration of his life and contribution to the town centre. “We are excited by Adrian’s vision of how he intends to capture Len’s wit and charm,” they said. “Our dance studio has been teaching people to dance in Dartford for just over 50 years, and to now have this wonderful tribute outside our school is incredible. Len would have been truly bowled over by it.”
Council leader Jeremy Kite described Goodman as “a perfect gentleman” and praised the artwork, saying, “When I met with representatives of Len’s family to see Adrian’s proposals, we couldn’t help smiling. It’s a perfect tribute to a perfect gentleman.”
Goodman, who passed away in April 2023, was a beloved figure in the world of dance, serving as the first head judge on Strictly Come Dancing from 2004 to 2016 and hosting US show Dancing With The Stars from 2005 to 2022.
The artwork, designed by Scarborough-based artist Adrian Riley, will include a nod to Goodman’s famous catchphrase “seven.” While details of the artwork’s design have not been revealed, Riley has previously created word-based art installations for prominent organizations such as the NHS, National Trust, and RSPB across the UK.
