Strictly's Robin Windsor dies aged at 44 as co-stars pay tearful tributes
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional has died just weeks on from sharing what is now a haunting final Instagram post.
Robin, who was paired with Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson , Lisa Riley and Deborah Meaden during his time on the BBC dance competition, was 44 years old. His death was announced by companies associated with the late dancer, with no details regarding the date of his passing or the cause of his death shared yet.
The late dancer's passing has sparked a wave of tributes from fans, and celebrities, with Robin's former Strictly Come Dancing co-stars flooding social media with their memories of him and ITV presenters growing emotional as they reported the tragic news on daytime TV programmes this morning.
A teary Susanna Reid, who danced with Robin for a Children In Need special in 2011, was struggled to announce the sad news to Good Morning Britain viewers today. Former X Factor star Marcus Collins, who dated Robin for 18 months, said "the world just got a lot less sparkly" as he mourned his late partner on Instagram.
Robin Windsor's death has seen an outpouring of emotional tributes from fans and celebrities (Getty Images)
Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley was one of the first to pay tribute to the Strictly Come Dancing professional (BBC/Guy Levy)Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley shared a collection of snaps of herself and Robin as she paid tribute online this morning, telling her followers: My Bestie, My Robin, My Angel…….now our forever Angel, who is loved, will always be loved, forever in my heart……my very broken heart, I love you, shine your beautiful, electric energy from heaven. SHINE IN PEACE."
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Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood wrote on Twitter (X): "I have just heard the tragic news my dear friend ’Bobby’ Robin Windsor has passed. He was one of the kindest, gentle, honest, funny and caring people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and working with. He will be forever missed. My heart goes out to all his family & friends. RIP darling man, you were truly loved x."
Robin's former fiance Davide Cini said he was "overwhelmed" at the "tragic loss" of the Strictly Come Dancing star as he posted on social media this morning. Davide, who popped the question to Robin in 2013 before their split the following year, wrote on Instagram: "I deeply appreciate everyone's messages following Robin's untimely passing. Please understand that I'm currently overwhelmed and unable to respond individually. Your support means a lot to me. Thank you for respecting my need for space as I come to terms with this tragic loss."
Kristina Rihanoff sparked some concern with her tribute to Robin on social media, with the Strictly professional writing about the "pain and devastation" she feels following his passing, and claiming Robin was "struggling more and more" in the lead up to his death, citing "instability of work" and "excruciating back pain".
Robin's final Instagram post was this selfie, shared with his followers last month (Instagram)
The Strictly star's ex-boyfriend paid a touching tribute online this morning (Getty Images)Within her lengthy tribute on Instagram, Kristina noted that Robin had battled with poor mental health issue for many years and was open with fans and friends his struggles. The dancer told her followers: "Many of you, who went to see his farewell tour, know perfectly well that he spoke very openly about his mental health struggles and thoughts of a suicide. I’m sure it was devastating for anyone who love Robin to hear something like that, but those thoughts were in his head for quite many years and it’s so deeply sad that he felt that he is better to another place rather than stay here. Too much pain too much disappointment, too much Neglect."
She concluded her tribute with: "I was asked today to appear on every news outlet, every TV show to pay tribute him to which I said no. Not today, not over zoom saying a couple of words what a great guy he was - the truth is he was an incredible person and it’s absolute tragedy that he felt there was no way out. Thank you for everything Robin, rest in peace."
In her post, Kristina went on to say dancers were some of the worst at neglecting their own health, and explained that following his back injury, he would "often would say that he doesn’t know where he’s going and what will be next".
She added: "While we went on to do many shows tours gigs & appearances together he was struggling more and more with instability of work and excruciating back pain because of the injury he had suffered during Strictly. Sadly, us dancers, always neglect our health because we always after the next gig, the next job and he just couldn’t look after his injury properly until there was nothing left to do but have an operation which also put him out of work for quite some time. Unfortunately 'stage live' of a dancer is short and nobody really cares because there is always the next person who can take your place and that’s the ugly truth. He often would say that he doesn’t know where he’s going and what’s will be next."
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Anton Du Beke said he was "absolutely devastated" to hear the sad news about Robin this morning, tell his Instagram followers how he had known the late dancer for "the best part of twenty five years - from a young competitor to a star of Strictly Come Dancing." The BBC judge added: "In my eyes he was always a star. We’re going to miss you, Robin. x." Italian dancer Giovanni Pernice took to his Instagram Stories to write: "Today is a sad day! One of the most kind human I know is gone and way too young. Will miss you mate! R.I.P."
The dancer's death was announced by Burn The Floor on Facebook in the early hours of this morning, with the international Ballroom and Latin dance company telling fans: "The Burn the Floor family has lost one of its founding members, Robin 'Bobby' Windsor - who has tragically passed away.
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"A BTF journeyman he danced with us for twenty years - including Broadway, The West End and all our crazy adventures around the world. His stunning image attached with Jessica Raffa defined our company, colourful, extreme and sensual. His talent, attitude, energy and personality helped create the Burn the Floor stage reputation. He leaves a void in our hearts that will never be filled, yet our wonderful memories will stay forever." The dance company then returned to social media a few hours later, sharing another picture of Robin and stating: "Today we all dance for you. Burn The Floor would not be Burn The Floor without you. Fly with the angels Robin. Rest in Peace."
X Factor star Marcus shared a series of pictures as he paid tribute to Robin on Instagram this morning (Instagram/ @marcuscollinsuk)In a statement shared with PA, the Strictly Come Dancing team paid tribute to Robin and said: "The whole Strictly Come Dancing family are deeply saddened to hear the news about our dear friend Robin Windsor. He was not only an exceptionally talented dancer and choreographer but also a caring, considerate and kind person both on and off the dancefloor. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this extremely difficult time."
Susanna Reid was unable to read out the breaking news announcement on Good Morning Britain earlier today and asked her co-host Ed Balls to take over, before eventually paying an emotional tribute to Robin alongside her co-star Richard Arnold. She told ITV viewers: "Robin was larger than life and I fell in love with him and fell in love with dancing when I danced with him back then [Children In Need's 2011 special]. He was an absolutely remarkable dancer, incredibly strong, so creative and he was just so enthusiastic about dancing. I just adored him. He was the most incredible personality."
Richard, who appeared on the 2012 series of Strictly where Robin was a professional and paired with Lisa Riley, struggled to speak and fought back tears as he added: "I can't quite believe it actually because such heart, such a talent, I just can't quite.... bit of a shock actually, to be honest."
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Brendan Cole was in shock as he appeared on the ITV show via phone later in the episode, fighting back the tears as he paid tribute to his late co-star. "It's completely devastating," Brendan as he spoke alongside Erin Boag. "Condolences to you, Susanna, you danced with him, you must have spent a lot of time with him. Erin and I spent many years on and off the dance floor with him."
Lorraine Kelly admitted she was in shock as she appeared on the ITV show amid the news of Robin's death breaking. "I couldn't believe that actually, I'm really shocked. I know you danced with him [ Susanna Reid ] and got to know him really well," the Scottish TV presenter said on air.
Robin shared this snap with fans just a few weeks ago (Instagram/ @robinwindsor)She went on to add: "Obviously he was on the show [Lorraine] and just a lovely, kind, gorgeous man and so good at what he did. I just loved the way he encouraged everybody, he made you want to get up and dance. He really did. It's just so sad, far too young. It's just really tragic."
Alison Hammond was clearly broken by the news as Craig Doyle and Josie Gibson hosted This Morning in the wake of her former dance partner's death. Alison, who danced with Robin for a Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special in 2015, issued a statement for her ITV colleagues to read out live on air.
Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly wrote on Instagram: "Such terribly sad news today. Gone too young @robinwindsor. Your infectious personality, energy and talent will be deeply missed by all who knew you. My heart goes out to your loved ones at this time."
Strictly's head judge Shirley Ballas told her Twitter (X) followers: "I’m very saddened to hear the devastating news about this beautiful human being this morning. Robin Windsor… kind, gracious, gentle and extremely hard working. A wonderful dancer, true gentleman, good soul & so very young. You will be missed by so many. Rest in Peace. Xx."
James Jordan took to social media this morning to remember his friend and was one of the first stars to pay tribute to Robin this morning. Sharing a promotional image of Robin during his time on Strictly Come Dancing, James told his Instagram followers: "I had the pleasure of working with this man for many years on Strictly - I have such fond memories of him. He was always very caring and fun to be around. Everyone who came in contact with him adored him, from his celebrity partners to his working colleagues. You will be missed old friend."
Robin smiling with fellow entertainers on a cruise in South Africa earlier this monthTV presenter Kirsty Gallacher commented on James' tribute, writing: "Gosh how sad." "Such sad news and thinking of all who loved and knew him," one Instagram user added, as another wrote: "Oh no. this is sad news as i loved watching Strictly when he was dancing as he seemed like a really nice guy with a positive energy and lots of fun. RIP Robin. my love, thoughts and condolences to all of his family & friends… xxx."
Sisco Entertainment Group also announced Robin's death via a statement shared on social media. The tribute reads: "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our beloved friend, Robin Windsor. Robin's presence in 'Come What May' was more than just a performance; it was an embodiment of passion, grace, and sheer talent.
"His extraordinary ability to express emotion through movement captivated audiences, leaving them spellbound with every step. Beyond his impeccable dancing, Robin's vibrant spirit lit up the room, infusing rehearsals and performances with infectious energy and warmth. His laughter was contagious, his kindness boundless. His friendship was a gift cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Robin, you will be deeply missed. Though 'Come What May' will continue without you, your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share in your light."
Robin's fans have been flooded the late star's final Instagram post with messages of condolences following his death being announced this morning. Robin took to the platform on 28th January to share a darkly lit selfie with 43,200 followers, captioning it: "Hiding in the shadows."
"No longer in the shadows but in the light," one Instagram user commented underneath the post this morning in the wake of Robin's passing. "This was not the news I wanted to wake up to this morning. Rip Robin," another added, as a third simply wrote: "Sleep tight beautiful man." One of the final pictures of Robin was shared on Instagram on 4th February, with the late dancer seen smiling as he posed with friends on board a cruise in South Africa.
Former Strictly professional Oti Mabuse was heartbroken as she paid tribute on Instagram, sharing a picture of Robin and writing: "What tragic news to hear! Robin was one of the kindest, loving, professional, creative and beautiful humans. Not only was he a big part of the strictly family but Robin was apart of our London Dance nights family with his wonders partner Jane who along with his friends and family will miss him. Robins smile, hugs, jokes and beautiful talent will be missed by us all. RIP."
Former This Morning presenter Eamonn Holmes recalled a story where he and wife Ruth Langsford danced with Robin at a charity event at Old Trafford stadium. Speaking about the time he spent with Robin, Eamonn choked up live on air as he said: "What energy, but this is sad… we remember him fondly."
'The World just got a lot less sparkly. Robin You were so loved,' Marcus wrote this morning as he paid tribute to his ex (PA)
Susanna Reid was unable to read out the statement announcing the dancer's death on Good Morning Britain today (PA)Robin first joined the professional Strictly Come Dancing line-up in 2010 and was paired with Patsy Kensit but had to leave the BBC dance competition four years later due to an injury. The closest he got to winning was coming in fifth place with Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley in 2012.
Speaking at the end of 2022, Robin opened up about why he quit the BBC series - admitting he had no choice. He recalled: "Leaving Strictly wasn't my choice. I had a horrible back operation and they decided that they didn't want to ask me back the next year. It was probably for health and safety reasons, in case something happened, but I was physically fit."
The dancer then went on to tell Betway: "One of my best friends Trent Whiddon, who replaced me to dance with Pixie Lott, I wanted to watch and support him, but it broke my heart. I was with Marcus Collins from The X Factor, who was my partner at the time, and said to him, 'I'm really struggling to watch the show.'"
"He told me the best thing to do was to really get behind and support everybody. He said it was hard for him to watch the success of Little Mix, who beat him on X Factor. He was spot on!" Robin added: "From that day forward I made sure I supported everybody on the show. Being bitter about not being asked back was not going to help any situation. I learnt that was the right thing to do and I thank Marcus for that."
Robin and Marcus enjoyed an 18-month romance thanks to Dragons' Dens star and Robin's former Strictly partner Deborah Meaden's sage advice. Marcus noticed a picture of Robin on the cover of Gay Times and decided to send him a tweet. Robin recalled: "Marcus Tweeted me to say 'You're looking really good, well done'!"
He continued to recall: "We'd first met at ITV studios a few years ago, when I passed Marcus in the corridor and asked for a photo because he was very handsome. From then on there was no contact whatsoever til I appeared on the GT cover. After my last relationship ended I was on the rebound and on the warpath thinking, I must find a boyfriend.
"Deborah Meaden told me to get myself together, concentrate on work, forget about men, and enjoy life. As soon as I did that, Marcus came along." Marcus paid tribute to his late partner on Instagram on Monday morning, sharing a black and white picture of himself with Robin and captioning it: "The World just got a lot less sparkly. Robin You were so loved."
Robin's final post on Twitter (X) was a sweet nod to Deborah, with the late star adding a trio of love-heart emojis to a post from the Dragons' Den star. The original tweet from Deborah reads: "11 years after we did @bbcstrictly together this happens and it is just lovely!! The wonderful @Robinwindsor and my Mum ( yep...87 years and amazing!!) meeting up in South Africa...don't you just love it!!"
Robin, who was born in Ipswich, Suffolk, started dancing when he was just three years old. His parents signed him up for classes in his hometown and at 15, he moved to London to chase his dream of becoming a professional dancer. He represented England in many dance competitions, both at home and abroad.
The late star joined the cast of show Burn The Floor in 2001 and toured the world for 10 years, with a nine-month run on Broadway. Robin also appeared in Dancing With The Stars Australia and So You Think You Can Dance in the Netherlands and assisted in the choreography for the Australian version of So You Think You Can Dance, as well as acting as a motivational speaker.
Robin was open about his physical and mental health battles over the years. He discussed his battle with depression and became an ambassador for mental health charity SANE in 2018 to help others through his own experience. In a brave chat with the organisation, Robin spoke of his first bout of depression at 19 when he had to stop dancing due to money troubles.
"I didn't really understand when I was 19 years old that I was suffering from depression at that time," he shared. "And as I said, I was fuelling my life with as much as possible without drugs. Dancing is really what makes me happy and, without it in my life, I felt lost. Thankfully, I was given an opportunity to get back into it and had an incredible job traveling the world."
After finishing Broadway, he got a job on Strictly and said his life "changed for the better". "After four amazing years on the show, I suffered a bit of an accident on my back having to have surgery and I ended up losing my job on Strictly," he revealed. "That was probably the worst thing that could have ever happened to me because it took away what I loved the most. I loved being on Strictly more than anybody who was there. I got to dance and show 13 million people every single week what it was that I love to do.
"So, once that was taken away from me, I went into quite a steady decline. Not really understanding what was going on I found that I was sad. And, I know we all have our dark days, but my dark days turned into dark weeks and I wouldn't get out of bed. I didn't really understand why I was feeling like that or how to get out of that state."
Robin continued recall how he felt that he couldn't tell anyone about his struggles, so he "let things get worse" and ended up in a really tough spot "where it was nearly the end for [him]". Luckily, at that time, he posted and retweeted messages from SANE and other mental health groups. This caught the attention of someone from SANE who reached out to check on him. When he confessed he wasn't doing well, they had a chat with him and helped him start to feel better.
*If you are struggling with mental health, you can speak to a trained advisor from Mind mental health charity on 0300 123 3393 or email [email protected]
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