Since its glittering debut in 2004, BBC's Strictly Come Dancing has become a national institution, welcoming a dazzling array of celebrities to its famous dance floor. From pop icons and footballers to politicians and actors, the show has created countless magical moments. Tragically, not all of those who brought the show its sparkle are still with us. As the latest series concludes, we remember the hosts, judges, and contestants who have sadly passed away.
Legendary Hosts and Judges
The show's original heartbeat was the inimitable Sir Bruce Forsyth. Affectionately known as 'Brucie', he presented Strictly from its first series in 2004 until 2013, delighting audiences with his energetic charm and iconic catchphrases. His legacy was honoured in a moving tribute during the show's centenary special in 2022. Sir Bruce passed away in August 2017 at the age of 89 from bronchial pneumonia at his home in Surrey.
For twelve series, the cry of 'Seven!' from head judge Len Goodman was a staple of the scoring. A former professional ballroom dancer, Len brought authority and warmth to the panel until his departure in 2016. He sadly died from prostate cancer in April 2023 at the age of 78, prompting an outpouring of grief from the Strictly family, who remembered his 'twinkle, warmth and wit'.
Tragic Losses Among Contestants
The show has also mourned the loss of several talented contestants. Caroline Flack, who won the glitterball trophy in 2014 with partner Pasha Kovalev, was a standout performer, achieving a perfect score in every dance of her final. Her death by suicide in 2020 at the age of 40 sent shockwaves through the entertainment world. The official Strictly account described the team as 'heartbroken', while judge Bruno Tonioli remembered her as 'always so much fun to be around'.
Beloved professional dancer Robin Windsor, known for his partnerships with stars like Lisa Riley and Anita Dobson, brought boundless energy to four series. His death in February 2024 at just 44 years old left fans and colleagues devastated. An inquest into his death is scheduled for January 2026.
Brave Battles and Unexpected Goodbyes
Other stars faced their final curtain after brave public health battles. Bill Turnbull, the journalist and presenter, impressed viewers in series three by dancing through an ankle injury to finish sixth. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2018 and passed away at his Suffolk home in August 2022, aged 66.
Actress and Loose Women panellist Lynda Bellingham, who appeared in series seven in 2009, revealed she had terminal cancer in September 2014 and died the following October. Magician Paul Daniels, a 2010 contestant, died in 2016 aged 77 from a brain tumour.
The show has also seen unexpected and early passings. Comedian Jason Wood, the first ever contestant to be eliminated back in 2004, died in 2010 aged 38. Snooker player Willie Thorne, who took part in 2007, died aged 66 in 2020 after going into septic shock while in hospital in Spain.
Each of these individuals left an indelible mark on Strictly Come Dancing, contributing to the joy, drama, and spectacle that millions tune in for every week. Their memories continue to be part of the fabric of the beloved BBC show.
