Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor has died aged 44.
The Latin and Ballroom dancer appeared on the BBC dancing show for four series from 2010 until 2013 and was partnered with Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Lisa Riley and Deborah Meaden. His cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
Sharing the heartbreaking news online on Tuesday (February 20), James Jordan, who appeared as a professional dancer on Strictly from 2006 until 2013, penned on X, formerly known as Twitter: “I had the pleasure of working with this man for many years on Strictly. Everyone who came in contact with him adored him, from his celebrity partners to his working colleagues. You will be missed old friend.”
READ MORE: Strictly’s Amy Dowden rushed to hospital as family ‘drop everything’ to be with her
READ MORE: Click for more brilliant Daily Star TV stories
Devastated Strictly fans have also shared their own tributes online following the sad news. One fan wrote: “No Robin was my absolute favourite dancer on Strictly.” Another added: “Such sad and shocking news this morning that @Robinwindsor has passed away at 44. His Strictly reviews via his socials during strictly season we’re always a good and fair read. Much love to his family friends and colleagues.”
A third person said: “I can’t believe about Robin Windsor I was just scrolling Facebook and saw the Burn the Floor post. He was only 44, it’s literally heartbreaking. He was one of the standout pros on Strictly when he was on it.” A fourth social media user added: “I’m in disbelief. Robin, the beautiful person you were. The world has lost so much more than your talent. I will always remember you for your kindness and generosity. I wish I could turn back the clock. Always part of the BTF family.”
Robin could not participate as a partner in the 2014 because of a injury and had surgery on his back and was replaced by Trent Whiddon. But he did appear in week nine, on 23 November 2014, in the opening professional sequence, as a policeman, dancing to “Rock This Town” by the Stray Cats.
(Image: BBC/Ray Burmiston)
As well as appearing on the Strictly main show for four series, Robin also took part in three Strictly Christmas Specials from 2013 until 2015. He was paired with Sara Cox, Lisa Riley and Alison Hammond retrospectively. He had been dancing since he was three, when his parents took him to the Ipswich School of Dancing. At age 15, Robin moved to London to pursue his career as a dancer.
The TV personality lived in London with his partner Davide Cini, to whom he had announced his engagement on August 2013. The relationship ended shortly after and in February 2014, it was later confirmed that he was in a relationship with X Factor runner-up Marcus Collins. Robin and Marcus couple split up in February 2015 but got back together later that year but separated again in 2016.
(Image: BBC/Guy Levy)
As well as being part of Strictly, Robin was the founder of dance show Burn The Floor. A statement issued on the production’s official Facebook page read: “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.”
Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid, who danced with Robin for a Children In Need special in 2011, fought back tears as she addressed his death live on the ITV breakfast show. The devastated broadcaster was unable to announce the shock news, deferring to co-host Ed Balls who read a statement from stage show Burn The Floor announcing Robin’s passing.
After the tribute, Susanna said: “He was an absolutely remarkable dancer, strong so creative, he was just so enthusiastic about dancing. I just adored him. He was the most incredible personality. As soon as I danced with him there was something really special about it.” After the break, she continued: “I have wonderful memories of you, Robin. He was very sensual, wonderfully exuberant. Full of strength and creativity. He made me fall in love with dancing. He was a fabulous, phenomenal personality.”
(Image: WireImage)
Meanwhile, Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood also posted on X. He said: “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 and friends. RIP darling man, you were truly loved x.”
A statement from Robin Windsor Website read: “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of our beautiful Robin. Robin’s dancing started from a very young age and never stopped. He lit up any room he walked into, he was a nurturing soul always full of fun. He brought so much happiness to anyone who saw him dance. Strictly Cone Dancing, Burn the floor and many other dance shows along with all the school children around the country who he gave his time. Robin was a strong advocate for mental health and worked closely with the ‘Sane Charity’ The dance world has lost some of its sparkle today. We ask for the family’s privacy at this very difficult time.”
Want all the biggest Showbiz and TV news straight to your inbox? Sign up for our free Daily Star Showbiz newsletter
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
