Since its debut in 2005, Dancing with the Stars has graced our screens, becoming a beloved television staple. Over the years, an impressive 381 celebrities have taken to the dance floor, all vying for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. While the show celebrates life and dance, it’s also important to remember those stars from the DWTS family who are sadly no longer with us. The show itself has honored these individuals, with memorials in the studio as shared by senior producer Adam Raia. Let’s take a moment to remember these cherished stars and celebrate their contributions to Dancing with the Stars.
WATCH: Relive the emotional tribute to Len Goodman on Dancing with the Stars
Len Goodman
Len Goodman smiling at the judges' table on Dancing with the Stars
Len Goodman, a beloved figure on Dancing with the Stars, passed away in 2023.
Len Goodman was a cornerstone of Dancing with the Stars from its very inception, serving as the head judge. Fans adored his distinctive mannerisms, memorable catchphrases, and of course, his iconic shout of “SEV-ERN!”. After an impressive 31 seasons, Len announced his retirement at the end of season 31, expressing his desire to return to the UK and spend more time with his family. However, the dance world mourned when Len Goodman passed away at the age of 78 on April 22, 2023, after a battle with bone cancer.
The impact of Len’s passing was felt deeply across both Dancing with the Stars and its UK counterpart, Strictly Come Dancing. Tributes poured in from fellow judges, professional dancers, and celebrities alike. Alfonso Ribeiro, the host of DWTS, promised a deeply moving tribute to Len for the subsequent season, stating to People magazine, “There won’t be a dry eye in the house. It’ll be amazing. I mean, he was the best.” His legacy as a dance icon and a warm presence on television remains strong.
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Shannen Doherty
Shannen Doherty posing in a shimmering silver dress at Dancing with the Stars
Shannen Doherty, known for her roles in Beverly Hills 90210 and Charmed, competed on season 10 of Dancing with the Stars.
Shannen Doherty, known for her roles in Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed, brought her star power to season ten of Dancing with the Stars. While her journey on the show was brief, being the first contestant eliminated alongside partner Mark Ballas, her spirit resonated with viewers. Even after her elimination, Shannen expressed that she had made her father proud by participating. The entertainment world was saddened to learn of Shannen’s passing on July 13, 2024, at the age of 53, following a courageous and public battle with breast cancer.
Carrie Ann Inaba, a judge on Dancing with the Stars, shared a heartfelt tribute to Shannen, highlighting her strength and resilience. “She was a warrior and inspired us all,” Inaba wrote. “She taught us how to be brave in the face of fear, and how to start a new life, even when the end was in sight. She had a peace in her eyes that I admired. She never gave up living or fighting for her life, even though you could see she had come to terms with her own mortality… I wish her eternal peace, that she rests easy now, knowing she inspired so many of us.” Shannen’s bravery and openness about her health journey touched many, leaving a lasting impact beyond her time on DWTS.
Jacoby Jones
Jacoby Jones and Karina Smirnoff performing on Dancing with the Stars
Jacoby Jones, a former NFL star, reached the finals of Dancing with the Stars season 16.
Jacoby Jones, a Super Bowl champion and former NFL star, showcased his athletic prowess on season 16 of Dancing with the Stars. Partnered with Karina Smirnoff, Jacoby captivated audiences with his energy and charisma, making it all the way to the finals, ultimately finishing as runner-up to Kellie Pickler and Derek Hough. The sports and entertainment worlds were shocked and saddened by the news of Jacoby’s sudden passing at the young age of 40 on July 14, 2024. He passed away in his sleep, leaving behind a legacy of athletic achievement and vibrant personality.
Cheryl Burke, a fellow DWTS professional dancer, expressed her devastation at the loss of her friend and co-star. “Absolutely devastated by the loss of my dear friend and fellow #dwts co-star, Jacoby Jones, who passed away in his sleep early this morning,” Burke shared. “While we weren’t dance partners, I had the honor of sharing unforgettable moments with him, from being part of his trio dance to supporting his cherished foundation. My heart aches for Jacoby and his family. My prayers are with you all. Rest in peace, Jacoby. You will be deeply missed.” Jacoby’s infectious spirit and memorable performances on DWTS will be fondly remembered.
Jerry Springer
Jerry Springer dancing with Kym Johnson on Dancing with the Stars
Jerry Springer, iconic talk show host, participated in season 3 of Dancing with the Stars.
Jerry Springer, the iconic and sometimes controversial talk show host, surprised many when he joined season three of Dancing with the Stars in 2006. Partnered with Kym Johnson, Jerry brought his unique charm to the ballroom. He famously stated his reason for participating was to learn to waltz for his daughter’s wedding. He achieved his goal in week 4, earning a respectable score of 22/30 for his waltz routine. The world mourned the loss of Jerry Springer when he passed away on April 27, 2023, at the age of 79, following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.
Kym Johnson, his DWTS partner, fondly remembered Jerry, highlighting their instant connection and his fatherly presence. “We instantly connected and he became like a father figure to me,” Kym recalled in an interview with People. She shared anecdotes of dinners with Jerry and his old friends, emphasizing his fascinating life journey from news anchor to mayor to talk show host. Jerry Springer’s time on DWTS, though brief, revealed a softer side to the often provocative personality, and his willingness to embrace new challenges was admired.
Cloris Leachman
Cloris Leachman smiling in a short dress on Dancing with the Stars
Cloris Leachman, legendary actress, was the oldest contestant to ever compete on Dancing with the Stars.
Cloris Leachman, a legendary actress with a career spanning decades, made history on Dancing with the Stars as the oldest celebrity contestant to ever compete. At the age of 82, she joined season seven, partnered with Corky Ballas. The duo charmed audiences with their spirited performances and humor, surviving until week 6 before their elimination after a cha-cha-cha. Cloris Leachman passed away at the remarkable age of 94 on January 27, 2021, due to a stroke in her sleep.
Cloris’s participation on Dancing with the Stars was a testament to her zest for life and her willingness to try new things at any age. She brought joy and laughter to the show, proving that age is no barrier to pursuing passions and entertaining audiences. Her legacy as a talented actress and a vibrant personality continues to inspire.
Aaron Carter
Aaron Carter posing with Karina Smirnoff on Dancing with the Stars
Aaron Carter, pop singer and younger brother of Nick Carter, competed on season 9 of Dancing with the Stars.
Aaron Carter, a pop singer and younger brother of Backstreet Boys’ Nick Carter, brought his youthful energy to season nine of Dancing with the Stars. Partnered with Karina Smirnoff, Aaron impressed viewers with his dance skills, reaching fifth place and even topping the leaderboard in week 2. Tragically, Aaron Carter passed away at the young age of 34 on November 5, 2022. His death was attributed to accidental drowning due to the effects of difluoroethane and alprazolam.
Karina Smirnoff, his DWTS partner, paid a heartfelt tribute to Aaron, sharing a video of their week 1 dance and expressing her heartbreak. “RIP @aaroncarter, so young! It’s heartbreaking. You always made me smile. Rest in peace, friend. You will be missed,” she wrote. Aaron’s time on Dancing with the Stars showcased his talent and charisma, and his untimely passing was a great loss to the music and entertainment community.
Florence Henderson
Florence Henderson smiling in a sparkly outfit on Dancing with the Stars
Florence Henderson, best known as Carol Brady, participated in season 11 of Dancing with the Stars.
Florence Henderson, beloved as Carol Brady from The Brady Bunch, charmed audiences once again on season 11 of Dancing with the Stars. Partnered with Corky Ballas, Florence brought her warmth and grace to the dance floor, lasting for five weeks in the competition. Florence Henderson passed away at the age of 82 on November 24, 2016, due to heart failure.
Remarkably, just days before her passing, Florence was in the audience of Dancing with the Stars supporting her close friend Maureen McCormick. Her dedication to the show and her fellow contestants was evident even in her final days. Florence’s legacy as a television icon and a gracious presence on DWTS remains cherished by fans.
Kirstie Alley
Kirstie Alley and Maksim Chmerkovskiy posing together on Dancing with the Stars
Kirstie Alley, star of Cheers, competed on both Dancing with the Stars and its All-Stars season.
Kirstie Alley, the Emmy-winning star of Cheers, was a memorable contestant on Dancing with the Stars, not once but twice. She competed in season 12, finishing as runner-up with partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy, and later returned for the All-Stars season, again with Maksim, where she was eliminated in week eight. Her dynamic partnership with Maksim and her vibrant personality made her a fan favorite. Kirstie Alley passed away at the age of 71 on December 5, 2022, after a battle with stage 4 colon cancer.
Maksim Chmerkovskiy shared a touching tribute to Kirstie, acknowledging their close bond. “We haven’t spoken lately and I’ll tell you everything when I finally see you, but for now I want to say that I love you very much and I wish you the most peaceful rest,” Maksim wrote. “You were one of the most unique people I have ever met and easily one of the brightest moments of my personal and professional life.” Kirstie’s spirited performances and unforgettable personality left a lasting mark on Dancing with the Stars.
Valerie Harper
Valerie Harper and Tristan MacManus smiling on Dancing with the Stars
Valerie Harper, known for her roles in The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Rhoda, competed on season 17 of Dancing with the Stars.
Valerie Harper, beloved for her iconic roles in The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Rhoda, brought her grace and resilience to season 17 of Dancing with the Stars. Partnered with Tristan MacManus, Valerie competed for three weeks, inspiring viewers with her determination. Valerie Harper passed away on August 30, 2019, at the age of 80, after a long battle with cancer. She had been diagnosed with lung cancer ten years prior and later with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis.
Tristan MacManus, her DWTS partner, shared a heartfelt tribute, emphasizing Valerie’s unique spirit. “Such terrible news to hear – Valerie was one of a kind and I loved spending time with her and getting to know her,” Tristan said. “I genuinely loved her and will miss her dearly.” Valerie’s courage and positive attitude in the face of health challenges resonated deeply with audiences, making her time on DWTS particularly inspiring.
Suzanne Somers
Suzanne Somers and Tony Dovolani dancing on Dancing with the Stars
Suzanne Somers, star of Three’s Company and author, competed on season 20 of Dancing with the Stars.
Suzanne Somers, known for her role in Three’s Company and as a successful author and entrepreneur, joined season 20 of Dancing with the Stars. Partnered with Tony Dovolani, Suzanne brought her signature sparkle and energy to the ballroom, making it to the fourth week of the competition. Suzanne Somers passed away on October 15, 2023, just a day before her 77th birthday, after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer.
Tony Dovolani fondly remembered Suzanne, highlighting her unwavering positivity. “You never saw Suzanne Somers without a smile, and she was a class act from beginning to the end, even through her struggles and everything else,” Tony shared in an interview with People. He emphasized her grace and beauty throughout her 23-year battle with cancer. Suzanne’s vibrant spirit and enduring smile, even amidst adversity, made her a memorable figure on Dancing with the Stars.
Mary Wilson
Mary Wilson and Brandon Armstrong posing on Dancing with the Stars
Mary Wilson, founding member of The Supremes, competed on season 28 of Dancing with the Stars.
Mary Wilson, a founding member of the legendary Supremes, brought her musical legacy to season 28 of Dancing with the Stars. Partnered with Brandon Armstrong, Mary, unfortunately, was the first contestant eliminated. Mary Wilson passed away in her sleep on February 8, 2021, at the age of 76, due to hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Mary’s appearance on Dancing with the Stars was a celebration of her remarkable career and enduring talent. Her contribution to music and her willingness to embrace new challenges, even later in life, were admired by many. Her legacy as a Supreme and a performer lives on.
Anne Heche
Anne Heche and Keo Motsepe posing on Dancing with the Stars
Anne Heche, actress known for roles in Donnie Brasco and Six Days Seven Nights, competed on season 29 of Dancing with the Stars.
Anne Heche, a talented actress known for her roles in films like Donnie Brasco and Six Days Seven Nights, brought her dramatic flair to season 29 of Dancing with the Stars. Partnered with Keo Motsepe, Anne competed for four weeks. Tragically, Anne Heche was involved in a severe car accident on August 5, 2022, suffering critical injuries. She was declared brain dead on August 11, 2022, and passed away on August 14, 2022, at the age of 53.
Carrie Ann Inaba, reflecting on Anne’s passing, shared a heartfelt message: “She was a rare and precious person and I am sad that she has left us and her family so soon. I wish her family healing and love … and may Anne Heche rest and play in peace now … She will always be a part of the DWTS family.” Anne’s passionate performances and vibrant spirit on Dancing with the Stars remain a poignant memory for fans.
In remembrance of these stars, their contributions to Dancing with the Stars and the entertainment world will not be forgotten. Their memories live on in the hearts of fans and within the DWTS family.
