Heartbreaking List: 15+ Beloved 'Dancing With The Stars' Figures Who Have Passed Away (Updated 2025)

The glitz, glamour, and intense competition of Dancing with the Stars have captivated millions for decades, but behind the dazzling performances, the show’s family has faced profound loss. As of this current date, December 18, 2025, the community continues to mourn the passing of several beloved contestants, judges, and crew members. This article serves as an updated and complete tribute to the iconic figures from the DWTS family whose lights were tragically extinguished, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy on the ballroom floor and in the hearts of fans.

From legendary actors and musicians to esteemed judges and athletes, the list of those we’ve lost spans multiple seasons and roles, each death sending a wave of sadness through the show’s dedicated following. It's a somber reminder that even the brightest stars eventually fade, yet their contributions to the show remain etched in its history.

The Complete Roster: A Tribute to the Deceased DWTS Family

The Dancing with the Stars family is a tight-knit group, and the loss of any member is felt deeply by the professional dancers, hosts, and millions of viewers. This list provides a comprehensive look at the notable figures who have passed away, organized by their role and season.

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Recent and Notable Losses: 2023–2025

The past few years have been particularly difficult for the DWTS community, with the loss of several high-profile figures whose passing garnered widespread media attention.

• Jacoby Jones (Contestant, Season 16)
• Role: NFL Wide Receiver, Contestant on Season 16 (2013).
• Partner: Karina Smirnoff.
• Date of Death: July 14, 2024.
• Cause of Death: Passed away in his sleep at the age of 40.
• Legacy: Jones was a Super Bowl champion known for his infectious smile and energetic performances, finishing third in his season. His sudden passing was a shock to the NFL and DWTS communities.
• Shannen Doherty (Contestant, Season 10)
• Role: Iconic Actress (Beverly Hills, 90210, Charmed), Contestant on Season 10 (2010).
• Partner: Mark Ballas.
• Date of Death: 2024.
• Cause of Death: Complications from a long battle with cancer.
• Legacy: Doherty was a beloved figure who brought her trademark grit and determination to the ballroom, even though she was eliminated early. Her public health battle inspired millions.
• Len Goodman (Judge)
• Role: Head Judge on Dancing with the Stars (US) and Strictly Come Dancing (UK).
• Date of Death: April 22, 2023.
• Cause of Death: Bone cancer, passed away at age 78.
• Legacy: Goodman was the heart and soul of the judging panel for 31 seasons, famous for his catchphrases like "Seven!" and "From Len's lips to God's ears." His passing marked the end of an era, leading to emotional tributes from the entire cast.
• Jerry Springer (Contestant, Season 3)
• Role: Talk Show Host, Politician, Contestant on Season 3 (2006).
• Partner: Kym Johnson.
• Date of Death: April 27, 2023.
• Cause of Death: Pancreatic cancer, passed away at age 79.
• Legacy: Springer joined the show to make his daughter proud and was beloved for his humility and good humor, even while struggling with the complex dance steps.

The Enduring Legacies of Past Contestants

The show has seen a wide array of celebrities grace the stage, and many who have passed away left indelible marks on the entertainment world before their time on DWTS. Their appearances on the show often gave fans a new, more personal look at their lives.

• Aaron Carter (Contestant, Season 9)
• Role: Singer, Rapper, and Actor.
• Partner: Karina Smirnoff.
• Date of Death: November 5, 2022.
• Cause of Death: Accidental drowning after inhaling difluoroethane and taking alprazolam, at age 34.
• Legacy: Carter's appearance showed his dedication to a comeback, and his unexpected death shocked the music and television industries.
• Anne Heche (Contestant, Season 29)
• Role: Actress, Director, and Activist.
• Partner: Keo Motsepe.
• Date of Death: August 11, 2022.
• Cause of Death: Severe anoxic brain injury due to a car crash.
• Legacy: Heche was a vibrant and energetic personality on the show, known for her candidness and expressive performances.
• Cloris Leachman (Contestant, Season 7)
• Role: Oscar and Emmy-winning Actress.
• Partner: Corky Ballas.
• Date of Death: January 27, 2021.
• Cause of Death: Natural causes, at age 94.
• Legacy: At 82, she was one of the oldest competitors in DWTS history, proving that age is just a number with her spirited and often hilarious routines.
• Mary Wilson (Contestant, Season 28)
• Role: Co-founder of The Supremes.
• Partner: Brandon Armstrong.
• Date of Death: February 8, 2021.
• Cause of Death: Hypertension-related cardiovascular disease, at age 76.
• Legacy: Wilson brought Motown royalty to the ballroom, sharing her grace and musical history with a new generation of fans.
• Florence Henderson (Contestant, Season 11)
• Role: Actress (Carol Brady on The Brady Bunch).
• Partner: Corky Ballas.
• Date of Death: November 24, 2016.
• Cause of Death: Heart failure, at age 82.
• Legacy: A television icon, Henderson charmed audiences with her warmth and enthusiasm, embodying the show's spirit of fun and challenging oneself.
• Valerie Harper (Contestant, Season 17)
• Role: Actress (Rhoda Morgenstern on The Mary Tyler Moore Show).
• Partner: Tristan MacManus.
• Date of Death: August 30, 2019.
• Cause of Death: Cancer, at age 80.
• Legacy: Harper competed while battling cancer, making her journey on the show a testament to courage and resilience.

Remembering the Behind-the-Scenes Talent and Crew

The magic of Dancing with the Stars is created not only by the celebrities and professional dancers but also by the talented choreographers, musicians, and crew members who work tirelessly behind the scenes. The show has also mourned the loss of key creative personnel.

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• David Lee Scott Jr. (Choreographer)
• Role: Choreographer-in-Residence for Season 8.
• Date of Death: Passed away at age 52.
• Legacy: A highly respected dancer and choreographer who also worked on So You Think You Can Dance, his artistic contributions shaped the look and feel of many routines.

The Emotional Impact on the DWTS Family

The frequent losses have created a deep sense of community and shared grief among the professional dancers and hosts. Tributes often pour in on social media and during live broadcasts, highlighting the close bonds formed during the intense rehearsal and performance schedule. The deaths of figures like Len Goodman and Jacoby Jones, in particular, sparked emotional outpourings from his former partners and co-stars.

Pro dancer Cheryl Burke, for instance, spoke movingly about the passing of Jacoby Jones, reflecting the collective sadness felt by those who knew him. These moments of public mourning underscore the fact that the show is more than just a competition; it’s a family, and the loss of a member is a deeply personal experience for all involved.

The legacy of these stars—their courage, their humor, and their willingness to step outside their comfort zone—continues to inspire future contestants and honor the spirit of the show. Every season of Dancing with the Stars is, in a way, a tribute to those who danced before and are now gone, reminding us to cherish the talent and joy they brought to the stage.

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