Speaking at the unveiling of a tribute sculpture at the Goodman Dance Academy, Craig told The Mirror that his former co-star’s quick wit and unforgettable catchphrases played a part in making him the heart of Strictly. He joked that ten years after Goodman’s exit, his one-liners still cannot be replaced, even by head judge Shirley Ballas.
“For me, he was Strictly Come Dancing. His sayings… ‘A ten from Len’ was a huge one. Shirley has tried to replicate that one, but sadly, she failed,” Craig said.
Craig also spoke of their bond, saying: “I loved Len. If you looked at the TV we were constantly fighting like cat and dog, but as soon as we came off stage we’d have a pally drink together.”
Len Helped Craig Face His Biggest Fear
Craig revealed that Goodman helped him overcome his biggest fear when he joined Strictly. He said: “I am now the age Len was when he started Strictly. There was twenty years difference between us. I’ll let you into a little secret – when I started I was having nightmares because I didn’t know ballroom and Latin.”
He said the former judge taught him the details, pairing Craig with Goodman’s wife Sue and giving him guidance. “He was hilarious and I totally loved him,” Craig added.
Tributes Poured In After His Death
Len Goodman died in 2023 at the age of 78 after being diagnosed with bone cancer. Following his death, tributes poured in from former Strictly stars to remember the legendary judge.
Former Strictly judge Dame Darcey Bussell said: “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. For Len, Strictly and Dancing with the Stars was never about the fame, it was about keeping his world of dance true and relevant.”
Strictly Returns Later This Year
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One and iPlayer later this year.
