His agent, Jackie Gill, told Sky News the dancer and choreographer died on Saturday night at a hospice in Kent, surrounded by his family. He had been diagnosed with bone cancer.

In a statement, she said: "It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78.

"A much loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him."

Known for his warm humour and passion for Latin and Ballroom, Goodman was head judge on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing from its launch in 2004 to 2016.

His score call of "se-ven!" became his catchphrase, cementing his popularity with Strictly fans.

His final appearance was on the 2016 Christmas Day special, after which he was replaced as head judge by Shirley Ballas.

He also appeared on the American version of the show, Dancing With The Stars, from 2005 until his departure last year.

He said at the time that he wanted to "spend more time with my grandchildren and family" back in the UK.

Paying tribute, Strictly presenter Claudia Winkleman wrote on Twitter: "I'm so sad about Len. He was one of a kind, a brilliant and kind man. Full of twinkle, warmth and wit. Sending all love to his family and friends."

Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood described Goodman as a "gorgeous colleague and dear friend," writing: "I've just woken up to the sad news that my gorgeous colleague and dear friend Len Goodman has passed away. My heart and love go out to his lovely Sue and family.

"Len Goody Goodman is what I always called him and 'It's a ten from Len & seveeeeern' will live with me forever. RIP Len."

Former Strictly judge and ballerina Dame Darcey Bussell shared pictures of her alongside Goodman on Twitter, thanking him for his support during her time on Strictly.

Bussell also said in a longer statement: "I am so saddened to hear of the death of the dear gentleman Len Goodman. He had the gift of the gab, and I will never forget his use of fruit and veg and Sticky toffee pudding as descriptive phrases of dance. He was always professional: grounded, funny, loveable, supportive and respectful…but never shy to say how it was."

"He was always careful to stay out of the way when he was grumpy, not that that occurred too often!

"For Len, Strictly and Dancing with the Stars was never about the fame, it was about keeping his world of dance true and relevant. As I go into coach at the Royal Ballet today, I think of him so fondly and try to follow his example."

Strictly judge Bruno Tonioli wrote on Instagram: "Heart broken my dear friend and partner for 19 years the one and only ballroom legend #lengoodman passed away.

"I will treasure the memory of our incredible adventures and hundreds of shows we did together @bbcstrictly @dancingwiththestars. There will never be anyone like you. We will miss you."

Strictly presenter Tess Daly said Goodman "left an impression on everyone he met" and she would "never forget the fun we had on set".

In an Instagram post, Daly wrote: "So very sad to hear the news today of the passing of our Len Goodman.

"A beautiful man, genuine, warm and humble, who left an impression on everyone he met. I'll never forget the fun we had on set, his love and passion for dancing and that wonderfully cheeky smile lit up the screen."

"You were never a 7 for me, Len you were always a 10.

"My sincere condolences to Sue and all the family. Rest in peace Len."

Buckingham Palace said the Queen Consort, who had met Goodman on several occasions and danced with him in 2019 was "saddened" to learn of his death.

BBC director-general Tim Davie also paid tribute, crediting Goodman for his large part in Strictly's success.

He said in a statement: "Len Goodman was a wonderful, warm entertainer who was adored by millions. He appealed to all ages and felt like a member of everyone's family.

"Len was at the very heart of Strictly's success. He will be hugely missed by the public and his many friends and family."

Born in Bethnal Green in London's East End in April 1944, Goodman began his career selling fruit and veg on his grandfather's market stall before training as an apprentice welder on the London docks.

Training to become a footballer, a foot injury led him to turn to dance aged 19 on his doctor's recommendation.

He went on to win various competitions including the British Championships in Blackpool in his late 20s.

Goodman was a recipient of the Carl Alan Award in recognition of outstanding contributions to dance.

He also presented various BBC documentaries, a food travelogue alongside chef Ainsley Harriott, a family quiz show Partners In Rhyme (based on board game Obama Llama) and in 2021 even had a voice cameo in Hollyoaks.

Away from his TV career, he was also the owner of Goodman Academy, a dance school in Dartford, Kent, which has been running for over 50 years.

Outside of dance, Goodman was a music enthusiast and regularly stood in for the late Paul O'Grady when he was away from his BBC Radio 2 show.

A sports lover too, Goodman supported West Ham United, and was a big fan of cricket.

Goodman leaves behind one son, James, and his wife, dance teacher Sue Barrett.