It was announced this week that the legendary Strictly Come Dancing star Len Goodman died aged 78. The British dancer had spent some time in a hospice before he finally succumbed to his battle against bone cancer. Just a few years ago, he confessed that, when he was feeling down, one particular song from The Beatles would always cheer him up.
Goodman visited Liverpool in 2017 – the home of The Beatles – and attended The Beatles Story, a museum/attraction that goes into the history of the Fab Four.
During his time at the incredible location, he was quizzed by press about what his favourite song was.
According to Liverpool Echo, he responded: “In My Life.”
This was a non-single track from the band’s sixth studio album, Rubber Soul. It was primarily written by John Lennon, but was ultimately credited to the Lennon-McCartney songwriting partnership.
Goodman went on to explain exactly why he loved The Beatles track so much: “It’s a lovely song that always manages to cheer me up. Remembering all my mates and places I’ve lived.”
Indeed, the song is a powerful and emotional look back on the days gone and friends lost. In fact, Lennon originally wrote the song with a late friend in mind.
In My Life was penned in 1965, just three years after April 10, 1962, the death of Stuart Sutcliffe. The young Liverpudlian was The Beatles’ original bassist who died of a brain aneurysm at 22-years-old.
In My Life’s lyrics: “Some are dead and some are living / In my life, I’ve loved them all” refer directly to Lennon losing Sutcliffe.
Lennon knew In My Life was a powerful song, as well. It was one of his favourites, and he even dubbed it his “first real major piece of work”.
Goodman obviously understood this, and took the track on as his favourite. And now, a spokesperson for The Beatles Story has spoken out about the comments he made at the event.
“We’re saddened to hear of the passing of ballroom dancer, dance judge, and television personality Len Goodman,” the spokesperson said. “Today we reflect on meeting Len during his visits to The Beatles Story, and will take a moment to listen to his favourite Beatles song In My Life.”
Goodman’s manager, Jackie Gill, revealed the news that the Strictly star and ballroom dancer had died over the weekend.
Gill’s statement read: “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.”
Countless stars wrote tributes for the late dancer online, beginning with Dan Walker, who said: “So sad to hear about the death of Len Goodman. He was an incredible man & an extraordinary talent. Loved making telly with him, being daft with him, playing golf with him & will never forget the little tips he would send every week on Strictly. All my love to his family.”
