Jens Werner, the iconic dancer and former judge on ‘Dancing with the Stars’, has passed away after a long battle with cancer. He was 59 years old. His family announced that he peacefully passed away on July 9.
Jens Werner began his dancing journey at the age of five at the Andersen and Jensen Dance Institute in Copenhagen. His career quickly took off, becoming one of the most prominent figures in sports dancing in Denmark. Alongside his dance partner, Charlotte Jørgensen, he won the European Championship in 1993, and the following year they achieved the World Championship in standard dance. Jens Werner is the most successful dancer in Danish history with numerous championships both nationally and internationally.
Jens Werner was a fixture on ‘Dancing with the Stars’ for 20 seasons. He contributed with his expertise and passion for dance, becoming a beloved judge among both participants and viewers. In the spring of 2023, he announced that he had been diagnosed with cancer, but he continued as a guest judge in the latest season, which ended in November 2023.
In addition to his impressive career in dance, Jens Werner was also known as a loving spouse, father, son, brother, brother-in-law, and uncle. He leaves behind his wife, Anette Werner, and their two children. Together, they ran a dance school that will continue in his spirit.
In the book ‘Dance Became My Salvation – A World Champion’s Journey to the Top’ from 2022, Jens Werner shared his life story and described how dance had been at the center of his life for over 50 years. Dance was his salvation in his upbringing and a source of lifelong joy and passion.
Jens Werner will be remembered as an exceptional athlete, teacher, speaker, and a loving family man. His contributions to the world of dance and his inspiring personality will live on in the many people he touched throughout his life.
The family has announced that a memorial ceremony will be held where friends, family, and fans can say goodbye to one of Denmark’s most iconic dancers.