January 9th 2025.
Sad news has struck the dance community as it mourns the loss of Got To Dance star, Leon Heywood, who passed away at the age of 45. Heywood, who was also a director of the Trinity Warrior Dance Academy in Derby, rose to fame after appearing on the second season of the popular Sky One competition in 2011.
Together with his group, Heywood wowed judges Davina McCall, Kimberly Wyatt, and Ashley Banjo from Diversity, making it all the way to the finals. The academy shared the heartbreaking news of his passing on their Facebook page, paying tribute to him as a mentor, friend, and role model.
As a founding member of the academy, Heywood played a significant role in shaping the dancers and the community as a whole. He was not just a dance teacher, but a mentor, friend, and even a father figure to some. His passion for dance and unwavering support for his students will be deeply missed.
The dance community has taken to social media to express their condolences and pay tribute to Heywood. Many have shared fond memories and heartfelt messages, highlighting his impact on their lives. Heywood's legacy will continue to live on through his students and the Trinity Warriors.
Heywood's dedication and talent were not limited to the dance academy, as he also appeared on Got To Dance. On his LinkedIn page, he fondly remembered his time on the show, where his choreography was praised as 'world class' and 'the best seen on a live round to date'. Prior to his TV appearance, Heywood had already made a name for himself by winning several major dance competitions in the UK and abroad.
Got To Dance, originally known as Just Dance, was a popular show that ran from 2009 to 2014. Heywood joined fellow judges Aston Merrygold and Adam Garcia, as they searched for the best dancers in the UK. Heywood's group, Trinity Warriors, impressed the judges and viewers with their performances, earning three gold stars in the semi-finals and two in the final. Although they did not win the competition, they left a lasting impression on everyone with their routines to songs like 'Rocking to the Beat', 'American Boy', and 'Kids That Love to Dance'.
Our hearts go out to Heywood's family, friends, and the entire dance community during this difficult time. Heywood's contributions to the world of dance will never be forgotten, and his spirit will continue to inspire future generations. If you have a story to share about Heywood, please get in touch with us – we would love to hear from you.
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