Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Tributes have been pouring in for Julian Benson, who has died aged 54. The dancer, choreographer and TV judge passed away surrounded by his family on Saturday morning. Julian was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when he was just two years old and his used his platform to raise public awareness of the condition through the Julian Benson CF Foundation. Read more: Loraine Barry's heartbreak and happiness: Marriage breakdowns, turning 60 and finding love again Read more: Brian Redmond lifts lid on wife Jen, how they met, age gaps and home life in Kildare with two kids He was also known for his work as a judge on RTÉ's Dancing With The Stars and earlier this year he opened Tranquility House, which offers accommodation to families travelling to Dublin for cystic fibrosis treatment. A number of Julian's friends, colleagues and admirers have today been remembering him and the incredible legacy he leaves behind. A statement from Dancing With The Stars read: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our wonderful friend Julian Benson. Our very own Captain Sparkle who brought so much joy, brilliance and talent to the world. "His attitude and outlook on life was ever inspiring and will continue to be so thanks to his constant effort to better the lives of people around him, especially with the creation of the @jbcffoundation - his legacy will live on forever. Julian was one of a kind, and will be forever missed. The world lost a bit of sparkle today. May he rest in peace." Karen Byrne and Jake Carter said: "So sad to hear the news of Julian's passing. He was a true gentleman and always there to give his advice in this industry that we work in. Captain Sparkle will be truly missed. " "Such sad news. A legend of the ballroom. RIP Julian," Doireann Garrihy remarked. (Image: Brian McEvoy) While Rosanna Davison added: "Heartbroken to learn today of Julian Benson’s passing. He was such a kind, encouraging, fun and colourful person and had a huge impact on those of us lucky enough to work with him and call him a friend." "May he be flying free and fabulous where ever he be," Clelia Murphy said. Dermot Bannon, who worked with Julian on the development of Tranquility House, penned: "Devastated to hear that Julian Benson has passed away, he had so many health issues to deal with but he always showed with his amazing energy and fun lifting the entire room, it was a real privilege to have known and worked with him over the last few years, he taught me so much about resilience and life, rest in peace Julian." Ervinas Merfeldas wrote: "One of the nicest and most amazing people I’ve ever met and had the pleasure of knowing. May he rest in peace," while fellow professional dancers Robert Rowinski, Giulia Dotta and Pasquale La Rocca also paid their respects. James Patrice described Julian as "an icon, a trailblazer and the very essence of DWTS," while Anna Geary remarked: "Such sad news. His kindness and encouragement will never be forgotten. One of a kind! Rest easy Julian." Julian is survived by his brother Adrian, sister-in-law Rachel, and his beloved nieces and nephew. Julian adored his family with all his heart, and they were his greatest joy. His sparkle remains alive in Tranquility House, in the continued work of the Julian Benson Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and in the hearts of all who knew him. His energy, passion, and joy for life live on through the countless lives he touched, the community he built, and the legacy he leaves behind. "Cha Cha Boom" – his iconic catchphrase – will forever be synonymous with his vibrant spirit, his unwavering zest for life, and the joy he brought to everyone around him.