In perhaps the most exciting announcement on DWTS’s finale (depending how you feel about Bindi’s victory), Len Goodman declared his impending triumphant return to the ballroom!
In a video Len sent for the season 21 finale, he said to the pros, “Listen up: Len is coming back next season. And I don’t want any of your nonsense!”
Len had been a fixture in the ballroom for 20 seasons, serving as the voice of reason between Carrie Ann’s hysterics and Bruno’s histrionics. But he was judging the show on both sides of the Atlantic, and the schedule finally caught up to him, leading him to focus this season only on the U.K. show. But now he’s back!
It must be said, the other judges have admirably picked up the slack in his absence this season. Julianne critiques the dancers when needed, Bruno offers helpful advice buried in extravagant metaphors, and even Carrie Ann has said something related to technique once or twice. But no one can ever replace Len Goodman, who does not hold with “messing about” and gives out “seveeeeens” with such panache.
Presumably, the show will return to the four-judge format seen in seasons 19 and 20. That usually makes the show rushed, as there really isn’t time for four opinions on each dance. On the upside, this will lessen the opportunities for guest judges, a recent phenomenon of which we wholeheartedly disapprove.
The next season of Dancing with the Stars, complete with Len Goodman, begins on March 21.