Tom Bergeron Remembers Len Goodman and Reflects on His 'DWTS' Legacy (Exclusive)

etonline.com:

Tom Bergeron is remembering the late Len Goodman following news of his death. ET's Kevin Frazier spoke with the former  co-host on Monday, where he reflected on working alongside Goodman, and the legacy the longtime judge leaves behind.«I woke up this morning to a text from my sister, and it said, 'Sorry to hear about Len,' and that's the first that I had heard or read about it, so then I went online and saw the numerous stories of his passing,» Bergeron said of how he found out the sad news.Goodman died Saturday following a battle with bone cancer.

His manager, Jackie Gill, confirmed the news to the  on Monday morning.«It is with great sadness to announce that Len Goodman has passed away peacefully, aged 78,» Gill said in the statement to the . «A much-loved husband, father and grandfather who will be sorely missed by family, friends and all who knew him.»According to the , Goodman was on hospice at his home in Kent, England, and was surrounded by his family at the time of his death on Saturday.ABC and Disney+ released a statement to ET on Monday, saying, «Len Goodman will always be an icon in the world of ballroom dance, and we were lucky to have him as part of our  family for 31 seasons.

He was warm and caring, and always delivered genuine guidance. We are devastated by the news of his passing and our hearts are with his family during this very difficult time.»As for his first thoughts on Goodman's tragic death, Bergeron said a number of thoughts and memories instantly came to mind.«That smile, that twinkle in the eye.