Robin Windsor, a former professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, has died aged 44, his dance company has announced.
Windsor entered the BBC competition in 2010 and appeared in four series before leaving the show. His celebrity partners included actresses Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson and Lisa Riley, as well as Dragon’s Den entrepreneur Deborah Meaden.
Windsor’s agents and co-stars were among the first to pay tribute to the dancer, who had previously revealed his struggles with depression during the show. In 2018, Windsor told the Dancing Times: “We all have dark days, but I had dark weeks.
“I ended up not getting out of bed for four or five days in a row, and I was ‘lucky Robin’ as far as everyone was concerned – except for the people I lived with.”
Windsor’s ex-partner Marcus Collins, who was a finalist on ITV talent show X-Factor in 2011, said on his Instagram page: “The world has become a lot less sparkling. Robin, you were so loved.”
No cause of death has yet been given.
The news was confirmed by Sisco Entertainment, which represented Windsor in various areas of theater and corporate entertainment.
A statement said: “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 pure talent. His laugh was infectious, his kindness boundless.
“His friendship was a gift cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Robin, you will be greatly missed.
A spokesperson for Strictly Come Dancing said: “The whole Strictly Come Dancing family is 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, thoughtful and kind person, both on and off the dance floor. Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this extremely difficult time.”
Burn the Floor, an international Latin and ballroom dance company, said in a statement on its Facebook page that Windsor’s death “leaves a void in our hearts that will never be filled.”
“As a BTF journeyman, he danced with us for 20 years – including Broadway, The West End and all our crazy adventures around the world,” the statement said. “His stunning image with Jessica Raffa defined our company: colorful, extreme and sensual.
“His talent, attitude, energy and personality have 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 last forever.
Good Morning Britain host Susanna Reid fought back tears as she announced Windsor’s death on Tuesday.
Reid had previously danced with Robin in the BBC One show’s Children In Need special in 2011 and handed the announcement to co-host Ed Balls as she was visibly in shock.
She said: He was just an extraordinary person and like I said, he would have captivated so many people watching Strictly Come Dancing or Burn The Floor or other tours and dance productions he was involved with.
“I’m sorry if you woke up this morning and are as devastated as we are.”
“We send all our love to Robin’s family and to his friends and colleagues.”
Loved by so many
Strictly Come Dancing’s senior judge Craig Revel Horwood wrote tributes to Windsor, writing on Twitter: “I have just heard the tragic news that my dear friend ‘Bobby’ Robin Windsor has passed away.
“He was one of the kindest, gentlest, honest, funny and caring people I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with. He will be missed forever. My heart goes out to all his family and friends.
“RIP dear man, you were truly loved x.”
Patrick Helm, a choreographer on the show, said Windsor was someone who was loved by so many but couldn’t see it for himself
He wrote in a tribute: “I don’t even know how to find the words for this message. I will miss you very much, Robin Windsor
“This one hits me hard and too close to home. My deepest condolences go out to your family and everyone who knew you! You were another person who was loved by so many, but couldn’t see it yourself.
“May you finally be free and find a piece [sic]. RIP Bobby.”
Lisa Riley, the Emmerdale star and presenter who appeared with Windsor on Strictly in 2012, said she was “heartbroken” after the news.
Alongside a selection of images of them smiling and laughing together, posted on Twitter, Riley wrote: “My Bestie, My Robin, My Angel, now our eternal angel, who is loved, will always be loved, forever in my heart.
“My very broken heart, I love you, let your beautiful, electric energy shine from heaven. Shine in peace.”
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional James Jordan described him as a “legend” as he paid tribute.
“I had the pleasure of working with this man on Strictly for many years – I have such fond memories of him,” he wrote in an Instagram post.
“He was always very caring and fun to be with. Everyone who came into contact with him loved him, from his celebrity partners to his working colleagues. You will be missed, old friend.”
Windsor first started dancing at the age of three when his parents enrolled him in classes in Ipswich, according to his website. He subsequently represented England in numerous championships, both at national and international level.
He joined the cast of the show Burn The Floor in 2001 and toured the world for ten years, including nine months on Broadway.
Windsor also appeared on Dancing With The Stars Australia and So You Think You Can Dance in the Netherlands and assisted with the choreography for the Australian version of So You Think You Can Dance, and acted as a motivational speaker.
A statement on Windsor’s official website confirmed his death: It is with great sadness that we announce the tragic passing of our beautiful Robin.
“Robin’s dancing started at a very young age and never stopped. He lit up every room he entered, he was a nurturing soul, always full of fun. He brought so much happiness to everyone who saw him dance.
“Strictly Come Dancing, Burn the floor and many other dance shows along with all the school children across the country he gave his time to.
“Robin was a strong advocate for mental health and worked closely with the ‘Sane Charity’
“The dance world has lost some of its shine today. We ask for the family’s privacy at this very difficult time.”