Pasha Kovalev and Caroline Flack with the Strictly Come Dancing 2014 trophy. (Image: Guy Levy/BBC/PA Wire)
From politicians to pop stars and footballers to film stars, BBC’s iconic Strictly Come Dancing has showcased an remarkable array of celebrities.
Sadly, not all of these stars remain with us, with many beloved contestants, presenters and judges having d!ed over the years.
As the programme concludes its 23rd series, we reflect on and honour those who graced the legendary show but have tragically passed away.
Sir Bruce Forsyth
Sir Bruce Forsyth fronted Strictly from its debut series in 2004 through to 2013 (Image: Samir Hussein/Redferns via Getty Images)
The gentleman who transformed the programme into what it became, Brucie, as he was lovingly called, fronted Strictly from its debut series in 2004 through to 2013, before passing the torch to co-presenter Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.
Vibrant, naturally amusing, and a genuine dance enthusiast, Forsyth brought his legendary “Nice to see you, to see you…nice!” catchphrase, along with his abundance of charm.
During the programme’s centenary special in 2022, viewers were brought to tears by a touching tribute honouring his decades-spanning career and lasting impact on entertainment.
Sir Bruce d!ed in August 2017 at the age of 89 from bronchial pneumonia at his residence on the Wentworth Estate in Surrey.
Caroline Flack
Television presenter Caroline Flack triumphed in the programme’s 12th series with partner Pasha Kovalev in 2014, the year prior to securing the presenting positions for both Love Island and X-Factor. Flack delivered truly exceptional performances, becoming the first finalist to secure a perfect score of 40 for every single dance in the show’s grand finale.
Heartbreakingly, Caroline Flack took her own life in 2020 aged 40. Numerous Strictly personalities publicly expressed their grief upon hearing the devastating news.
“The entire Strictly Come Dancing family are heartbroken to hear this incredibly sad news,” read a statement from the programme’s official Twitter account at the time.
Bruno Tonioli voiced his shock at the tragedy, remembering Flack as someone who was “always so much fun to be around.”
Len Goodman
Goodman passed away from prostate cancer in April 2023 (Image: BBC)
Could anything epitomise Strictly more than Len Goodman bellowing ‘Seven!’ whilst delivering his verdict?
The former professional ballroom dancer served as Strictly’s chief judge throughout the programme’s initial 14 series, before departing in 2016 to pursue other ventures, particularly the American version Dancing with the Stars, where he similarly led the judging panel.
Goodman passed away from prostate cancer in April 2023, following a brief stay at a London hospice.
The Strictly community responded to his tragic d3ath with numerous heartfelt tributes, with Claudia Winkleman describing Goodman as “a class act” brimming with “twinkle, warmth and wit”.
Robin Windsor
Robin Windsor ranked among the programme’s most beloved professional dancers, forging numerous unforgettable partnerships with celebrities including Dragons Den star Deborah Meaden and actress Anita Dobson.
A gifted performer with an enormous personality, Windsor featured across four series of the programme, swiftly establishing himself as a viewer favourite through his infectious energy and sharp humour.
Heartbreakingly, the accomplished dancer d!ed in February 2024, aged just 44. His cause of d3ath remains undisclosed publicly, with an inquest set for January 2026.
Lisa Riley and Deborah Meaden, who had both partnered with Windsor on the programme, also offered tributes. Meaden characterised him as “kind and incredibly generous,” stating: “He lit up a room with his fun and energy and certainly his sparkle … he was never happier than when he was covered in crystals!”.
Bill Turnbull
Broadcaster and journalist Bill Turnbull dazzled on the Strictly dance floor during the programme’s third series, captivating audiences with his footwork as well as his courage and determination.
Despite sustaining a severe ankle injury during the third episode, he persevered through the discomfort and stayed in the competition, ultimately achieving an impressive sixth-place finish.
In March 2018, he disclosed his prostate cancer diagnosis. He tragically d!ed at his family residence in Suffolk on 31 August 2022, aged 66, survived by his wife and three children.
Paul Daniels
Paul Daniels sadly died after appearing on the hit BBC show (Image: BBC)
Magician Paul Daniels graced the Strictly dance floor back in 2010, partnered with professional dancer Ola Jordan, and they were the second couple to be voted off.
Daniels’ wife, Debbie McGee, also had a stint on Strictly, honouring her late husband by making it to the finals in 2017.
He passed away in 2016 at the age of 77 after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.
Lynda Bellingham
In September 2014, Lynda Bellingham announced that she had terminal cancer (Image: PA)
British actress and Loose Women panellist Lynda Bellingham, recognised for her roles in Doctor Who, All Creatures Great and Small, and as the mother in the OXO family adverts, took part in the show’s seventh series in 2009.
Paired with Darren Bennett, Bellingham made it to the fourth week of the show, delivering memorable performances including a Cha Cha to Queen’s Under Pressure, and a Paso Doble to Cliff Richard’s Devil Woman.
In September 2014, Lynda Bellingham announced that she had terminal cancer and only “months to live”, sadly passing away in October 2014.
Jason Wood
Jason Wood was paired with Kylie Jones on Strictly (Image: BBC)
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Stand-up comedian Jason Wood was a contestant in the show’s first series, becoming the first person ever to be eliminated from the show alongside his dance partner Kylie Jones.
The Luton-born comic confessed that dancing didn’t come easily to him, quipping: “Dancing is difficult, it’s like walking on a tightrope while holding a washing machine trying to stagger across holding books in my mouth.”
Wood tragically d!ed in 2010 at the young age of 38.
Willie Thorne
In 2007, snooker star Willie Thorne competed in the fifth series of Strictly Come Dancing alongside professional dancer Erin Boag, with the duo departing in week three.
Thorne passed away at the age of 66 in 2020 following ‘septic shock’ at a Spanish hospital, as confirmed by his friend and carer.
Paying her respects on X, Erin wrote: “Extremely sad news to hear that Willie Thorne has passed away. I have truly wonderful memories of the time I spent with him.”
