Strictly's Lauren Oakley shares touching tribute to late housemate Robin Windsor
Strictly Come Dancing's Lauren Oakley has revealed she was living with Robin Windsor ahead of his shock death.
The 32-year-old professional dancer joined Strictly in 2023 and was paired with newsreader Krishnan Guru-Murthy last year. While this meant she never worked with Robin on Strictly - who was a professional on the BBC show from 2010 until 2013 - they were close friends.
Like the wider Strictly community, Lauren was left devastated on Tuesday when it was revealed that Robin had passed away at the age of 44. The pair had worked together on the Burn The Floor dance shows that have wowed stages in the UK and USA.
Lauren paid tribute to Robin following the news of his passing - explaining that they had lived together and that he had supported her after she was cast in Strictly. Taking to Instagram Stories, Lauren issued a heartfelt statement, writing: "Living with Robin over the last Strictly season really showed me how much of a loving heart he had.
Lauren Oakley paid tribute to Robin - and revealed they had been living together (instagram@laurenmayoakley)
Robin was a pro dancer on Strictly from 2010 until 2013 (WireImage)“The kindest, most beautiful soul. He guided me, gave me advice & was always there whenever I needed questions answered. He supported me throughout my whole career. He just loved people & dance. I'm so glad I had the chance to spend this precious time with you Robin. And I will miss you so very much."
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Robin had been a professional dancer on Strictly until he underwent surgery on his back - and was not hired back to work on the show. He shared a theory that he suspected BBC bosses didn’t want to have him back out of fear he could injure himself.
Losing his role on the show hit Robin hard and he explained how difficult he found it - and how he couldn’t bring himself to watch Strictly in the immediate years after his job loss. He previously told the MailOnline: "'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. 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."
Robin's death was announced on Tuesday by his agent who said in a statement: "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."
They added: "Robin, you will be deeply missed. Though Come What My will continue without you, your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share in your light."
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