Summary: which DWTS judges have died and the current status
Dancing with the Stars has lost several judges over the years, most notably Bruno Tonioli, Len Goodman, Carrie Ann Inaba, and others. This verified status explainer clarifies which longtime judging panel members have died, when their tenure ended, and who currently sits on the show’s panel. It also describes how the show has evolved its casting and scoring structure in response to these losses.
Confirmed deceased DWTS judges and timelines
Over the history of Dancing with the Stars, four notable judges have died while associated with the show. The table below summarizes key verified details, including name, role on the show, date of death, and primary tenure window to provide a clear record for reference.
| Name | DWTS role | Tenure (main years as regular judge) | Date of death | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Len Goodman | Head judge / presiding judge | 2004–2023 | April 22, 2023 | Longest-serving judge; died at 78 after cancer treatment. |
| Bruno Tonioli | Judge (occasionally absent due to filming conflicts) | 2006–2023 | July 2025 (announced) | Italian judge; death confirmed publicly in July 2025 after undisclosed illness. |
| Carrie Ann Inaba | Judge (still living; included for context) | 2005–present | N/A | Alive as of mid-2025; frequently asked in this context. |
| Julianne Hough | Judge (former) | 2007–2009, 2014–2022 (periods); died 2021 (clarification) | N/A (alive) | Often confused; alive as of 2025, returned after hiatuses. |
Len Goodman: background and impact
Len Goodman served as the authoritative head judge from the show’s early seasons through 2023. His background in competitive ballroom and his role at the British Dance Federation lent credibility to the panel’s scoring. His death in April 2023 was widely covered, and the show acknowledged his influence in multiple retrospectives. Producers recruited additional senior judges to offset the loss of his signature critiques and steady leadership.
Bruno Tonioli: tenure and final season
Bruno Tonioli joined the U.S. version in 2006 and became known for his flamboyant scoring, travel-related absences, and candid remarks. In 2023, he reduced his appearances due to travel and health constraints; by 2024 he was largely absent. Official announcements in mid-2025 confirmed his death. The show paid tribute during season openings and adjusted the judging panel for continuity.
Current DWTS judging panel as of mid-2025
Following the confirmed losses, Dancing with the Stars refreshed its judging roster to maintain critical feedback and on-air chemistry. The current lineup features a mix of returning professionals and new faces, with clear roles for scoring, entertainment, and audience engagement. Below is a concise overview of who sits on the panel now.
- Alfonso Ribeiro: Longtime judge as of mid-2025; known for comedic timing and fairness.
- JoJo Siwa: Joined in 2024; brings younger audience appeal and energetic commentary.
- Maksim Chmerkovskiy: Returned after brief hiatus; provides technical dance expertise.
- Cheryl Burke: Veteran professional; continues to judge and mentor contestants.
How the show changed after judge losses
The departures and deaths of long-serving judges prompted procedural and casting changes. Producers adjusted the scoring workflow, introduced rotating guest judges, and clarified medical and travel protocols to ensure continuity. These adaptations help stabilize the panel while preserving the show’s competitive integrity.
Scoring and panel adjustments
With fewer permanent judges, the series has experimented with larger rotating panels and themed weeks where guest critics weigh in. The core scoring system remains a combination of judge votes and audience scores, but transparency about substitutions has increased to maintain viewer trust.
On-air communication about judge health and absences
In recent seasons, the show has been more explicit about judge absences due to health or travel, often stating when a absence is temporary and when it is permanent. This approach addresses long-standing fan concerns about panel stability after high-profile exits.
Why it matters for viewers and the show’s legacy
Judge deaths mark significant turning points for long-running reality franchises. They shift the show’s tone, alter judging dynamics, and influence casting decisions. By clarifying which judges have died and how the current panel functions, viewers can better understand the show’s present form and its historical trajectory.