Len Goodman has quit 'Dancing With the Stars'.

Len Goodman

Len Goodman

The 71-year-old dance expert is stepping down as head judge on the show after 20 seasons on the panel as he wants to spend more time with his family and focus on UK show 'Strictly Come Dancing'.

'DWTS' executive producer Rob Wade confirmed: "Len will not be returning as a judge this season on 'Dancing With the Stars' due to his schedule as a judge on 'Strictly Come Dancing' in the U.K. and the birth of his new grandson."

However, Len may still make occasional appearances on the new series of the celebrity dance contest, and there will not be a permanent replacement appointed alongside existing judges Bruno Tonioli - who also works on 'Strictly Come Dancing' - Carrie Ann Inaba and Julianne Hough.

Rob's statement added: "He still might be involved in the season at some capacity, but we will have to wait and see. We are planning on having great guest judges for some shows to join Bruno, Carrie Ann and Julianne, and I'm sure we will see Len in the ballroom again soon."

Len admitted late last year he was considering leaving the show as his schedule was too busy.

He said: "I just need a bit of time off to get on with a normal life. And it was either 'Strictly' went or the American one went or the tour went."

Season 21 of the show premieres on September 14, with the celebrity contestants unveiled on September 2.