Robin Windsor's Strictly co-star shares cryptic health post as tributes flood in
Robin Windsor was revealed to have died aged 44 on Tuesday as Strictly Come Dancing stars rushed to pay tribute.
The former Strictly professional joined the BBC show in 2010 and performed for the last time with Alison Hammond in 2015 as part of the Christmas special. Robin's former co-stars and celebrity partners have praised the dancer as they shared memories with the ballroom and Latin star after his death was announced on Monday.
In a heartfelt tribute, Strictly Come Dancing released a statement, in which they praised the "exceptionally talented" star. It read: "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."
Robin was partnered with Deborah Meaden in 2013 (PA)
Robin's former co-stars rushed to pay tribute (WireImage)Lisa Riley, who was partnered with Robin in 2012, took to social media to admit her heart is "broken" at the news. She wrote: "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," followed by broken-hearted emojis.
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Robin's former Strictly co-star Kristina Rihanoff shared a post opening up on the dancer's "health struggles". She said: "There is no words to express the pain and devastation. Robin wasn’t just my dance partner, he was a friend and together we shared endless experiences from our careers highlights to hitting Rockbottom of rejection.
"When I got partnered with him on Strictly I was blown away by his kindness, lighthearted personality and amazing loyalty. He had stood by me through many rough times during Strictly for which I am deeply grateful for as there no one else to lean on. He always found the way to bring my spirit up. However his own spirit was absolutely destroyed when he was dropped from Strictly and that’s where I started to see changes in his personality, depression and broken self worth.
"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.
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."
Robin and Kristina performed together on StrictlyJames Jordan was one of the first Strictly professionals to pay tribute to Robin on social media. Sharing a picture of Robin during his time on the BBC show, 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."
Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood was left devastated by the news as he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: "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."
Oti Mabuse shared a picture of Robin as he branded him "one of the kindest, loving, professional, creative and beautiful humans" in a heartfelt tribute. She said: "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."
Fellow judge and former Strictly pro Anton Du Beke said: "Absolutely devastated to hear the sad news about Robin, a person I’ve known for the best part of twenty five years - from a young competitor to a star of Strictly Come Dancing. In my eyes he was always a star. We’re going to miss you, Robin. x."
Robin's former dance partner Alison shared a tribute to the beloved star in a statement read out on This Morning today by hosts Craig Doyle and Josie Gibson, Alison shared: "I've just heard the very sad news about Robin's passing. I'm completely heartbroken. He was one of the nicest people to work with and so much fun to be around. I had the pleasure of dancing with him for the Strictly Christmas special and they were such special times. My thoughts are with his family and friends."
Strictly host Tess Daly shared a picture of Robin on Instagram as she wrote: "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."
Susanna Reid, who danced with Robin for a Children In Need special, struggled to hold back tears as she shared the sad news with Good Morning Britain viewers today. After announcing his death live on air, Susanna said: "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."
Robin was loved by his close friends, family and former Strictly colleaguesRichard, who appeared on the 2012 series of Strictly when Robin was a pro, struggled to speak as he said: "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."
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Susanna later added: "He was just an extraordinary person and as I say, he would have had so many people gripped watching either Strictly Come Dancing or Burn The Floor or other tours and dance productions he was in involved in. I'm sorry if you're waking up to that this morning and are as devastated about that as we are."
Struggling to hold back tears, she shared: "We send all of our love to Robin's family and to his friends and colleagues" as co-star, Ed, 56, comforted an emotional Susanna. Later on GMB, Brendan Cole joined by telephone link to pay tribute to his former colleague.
He said: "It's completely devastating. 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.
"I'm a little bit in shock, for his family, they must be going through hell and I thought they might want to hear some lovely things about him", Brendan then got emotional as he added: "I'm quite choked up" as he struggled to continue.
To which Susanna replied: "I can totally understand." Brendan continued: "He was lovely, he didn't have a bad word to say about anybody. He just loved being on the dance floor, hanging out with his friends. The true life and soul of the party." Meanwhile, former Strictly pro Erin added: "When I found out this morning, I just couldn't believe it. Devastated, beyond words."
Strictly professionals Dianne Buswell and Amy Dowen took to Instagram to praise the beloved dancer. Amy wrote: "In such shock this morning to wake to the news. RIP Robin Windsor. Such a kind, talented soul." Dianne added: "Rest in peace Robin it was a pleasure to share the stage with you."
Giovanni Pernice shared a message in tribute to Robin on his Instagram Story. He wrote: "Today is a sad day. One of the most kind humans I know is gone and way too young. Will miss you mate. RIP."
Robin Windsor's ex-boyfriend Marcus Collins, who was a contestant on the X-Factor in 2011, paid tribute to the Strictly Come Dancing star. Taking to Instagram, Marcus shared a series of pictures of himself with Robin with the caption: "The World just got a lot less sparkly. Robin You were so loved."
Robin's death was announced by Burn The Floor on Facebook in the early hours of this morning, with the international Ballroom & 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.
"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."
Sisco Entertainment Group also announced the ballroom and Latin star'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."
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