The Tragic List: 8 Beloved Dancing With The Stars Cast Members Who Have Died Recently
In Memoriam: The Most Recent and Notable DWTS Family Losses
The following individuals represent some of the most significant and recent losses to the *Dancing with the Stars* community, including a legendary judge and a highly respected choreographer whose deaths sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.1. Len Goodman (Judge)
- Role: Head Judge on *Dancing with the Stars* (Seasons 1–29) and *Strictly Come Dancing*.
- Born: April 25, 1944, in Bethnal Green, London, England.
- Died: April 22, 2023, at age 78.
- Cause of Death: Bone cancer (following a private battle with prostate cancer).
- Legacy: Known for his signature catchphrase, "Seven!", and his honest, no-nonsense critiques. He was a champion of traditional ballroom and Latin dance. Goodman announced his retirement from *DWTS* in November 2022 to spend more time with his family in the UK. His passing just months later was a massive blow to both the US and UK dance communities.
Len Goodman was the cornerstone of the *DWTS* judging panel for nearly two decades. His critiques were often tough but always fair, rooted in his lifelong passion for dance. Goodman’s battle with prostate cancer, which eventually spread to his bones, was kept private until his death. His final season on the show, Season 31, served as a poignant farewell, solidifying his status as a true legend of the ballroom.
2. Dave Scott (Choreographer)
- Role: Resident Choreographer on *Dancing with the Stars* and *So You Think You Can Dance*.
- Born: August 15, 1972.
- Died: June 16, 2025, at age 52.
- Cause of Death: Undisclosed (family requested privacy and donations for funeral arrangements).
- Legacy: A highly influential hip-hop dance teacher and choreographer, Scott was known for his work on the *Step Up* film series. His contributions to *DWTS* brought a fresh, contemporary edge to the show's routines, inspiring both the professional dancers and the celebrity contestants. His sudden passing was a shock to the dance world in mid-2025.
The death of Dave Scott in June 2025 was a significant loss for the entire dance community. At just 52, Scott was a vibrant, creative force who had worked on major Hollywood projects, including *Step Up 2: The Streets*. His role as a resident choreographer on *DWTS* meant he was instrumental in shaping the look and feel of many of the show's most memorable group and opening numbers. The tributes from his colleagues highlighted his status as an "icon" and a true legend.
3. Jerry Springer (Contestant)
- Role: Celebrity Contestant on *DWTS* Season 3.
- Born: February 13, 1944.
- Died: April 27, 2023, at age 79.
- Cause of Death: Pancreatic cancer.
- Legacy: The iconic talk show host competed on Season 3 in 2006, partnering with pro Kym Johnson. He competed primarily to make his daughter proud. He was known for his self-deprecating humor and positive attitude, even after being eliminated in Week 7. His death came just days after Len Goodman's, marking a difficult week for the show's alumni.
Jerry Springer, famous for his controversial talk show, showed a gentler, more endearing side during his time on *Dancing with the Stars*. He partnered with Kym Johnson in Season 3, revealing that his main motivation was to give his daughter a story to tell her friends. Springer passed away in April 2023 after a private battle with pancreatic cancer. His legacy as a television personality and a surprisingly charming ballroom dancer is remembered fondly by the show’s fans.
Tragic Losses and Enduring Legacies of DWTS Contestants
The reality of life and loss has touched many who have graced the *DWTS* stage over the years. Some of these passings were sudden, while others followed long, public health battles, but all have left an indelible mark on the show's history. The show's "In Memoriam" segments are often the most tear-jerking moments of any season, reminding viewers of the temporary nature of fame and life.4. Anne Heche (Contestant)
- Role: Celebrity Contestant on *DWTS* Season 29.
- Died: August 12, 2022, at age 53.
- Cause of Death: Injuries from a high-speed car crash.
- Legacy: The celebrated actress competed in 2020, partnering with Keo Motsepe. Her time on the show was marked by her emotional honesty and resilience. She was declared brain dead a week after her fiery car accident in Los Angeles, and her life support was later removed.
Anne Heche's death in August 2022 was one of the most tragic and widely reported losses. She suffered a severe brain injury after a devastating car crash, and though she was initially hospitalized, she succumbed to her injuries a week later. Heche, who competed on Season 29, was remembered by her pro partner and the *DWTS* community for her spirited performances and personal strength.
5. Kirstie Alley (Contestant)
- Role: Celebrity Contestant on *DWTS* Season 12 (Runner-up) and Season 15.
- Died: December 5, 2022, at age 71.
- Cause of Death: Colon cancer.
- Legacy: The Emmy-winning actress was a fan favorite, known for her candid humor and dramatic flair. She finished an impressive second place in Season 12 with Maksim Chmerkovskiy. Her passing in late 2022, just a month after Aaron Carter, added to the show's difficult year.
Kirstie Alley was one of the most successful celebrity contestants, securing a runner-up spot in Season 12. Her partnership with Maksim Chmerkovskiy was legendary, full of ups, downs, and unforgettable moments. Alley’s death from colon cancer in December 2022 was another profound loss for Hollywood and the *DWTS* family.
6. Aaron Carter (Contestant)
- Role: Celebrity Contestant on *DWTS* Season 9.
- Died: November 5, 2022, at age 34.
- Cause of Death: Accidental drowning after inhaling difluoroethane and taking alprazolam.
- Legacy: The singer and former teen idol competed in 2009, finishing in fifth place. His death at a very young age highlighted the struggles many celebrities face in their private lives.
Aaron Carter's passing in November 2022 was a shock due to his young age. The singer, who had been open about his struggles with addiction and mental health, died at 34. He competed on Season 9 of *DWTS* with Karina Smirnoff, showing his dedication to the dance competition and his natural talent on the floor.
The Ballroom Family’s Enduring Tribute to Lost Legends
The list of former *Dancing with the Stars* contestants and crew who have passed away extends beyond the most recent headlines, a testament to the show’s long history and the many lives it has touched. The professional dancers and hosts, like Tom Bergeron and Alfonso Ribeiro, often take time to reflect on the legacies of these stars.Other Notable DWTS Stars We Remember
The *DWTS* "In Memoriam" tributes also honor other unforgettable personalities:
- Mary Wilson: The co-founder of The Supremes competed in Season 28. She died suddenly in her sleep in February 2021 at age 76.
- Cloris Leachman: The Oscar and Emmy-winning actress competed in Season 7 at age 82, becoming the oldest contestant at the time. She died of natural causes in January 2021 at age 94.
- Florence Henderson: The beloved *Brady Bunch* mom competed in Season 11. She passed away in November 2016 at age 82.
- Valerie Harper: The *Rhoda* star competed in Season 17 while battling terminal cancer. She died in August 2019 at age 80.
- Shannen Doherty: The *90210* actress competed in Season 10. She passed away in July 2024 at age 53 after a long battle with breast cancer.
- Jacoby Jones: The NFL star and Super Bowl champion competed in Season 16. He was known for his infectious energy and humor.
Each of these stars, whether a beloved judge, a talented choreographer, or a memorable contestant, contributed a unique spark to the *Dancing with the Stars* phenomenon. Their memories live on through the iconic dances they performed, the emotional stories they shared, and the deep connections they forged with the show's global audience. The *DWTS* family continues to honor their contributions, ensuring their legacy remains a vibrant part of the show's history.
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