Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor dies aged 44
Robin Windsor, a former professional on Strictly Come Dancing, has died aged 44.
He appeared on the BBC One show from 2010 until 2013, partnering with Deborah Meaden, Lisa Riley, Anita Dobson and Patsy Kensit.
In a statement, production company Sisco Entertainment announced Windsor’s death “with heavy hearts”.
Windsor had most recently been starring in Come What May, a Moulin Rouge tribute show.
Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid became emotional as she announced the dancer’s death to viewers on Tuesday morning’s programme.
“He was a remarkable dancer, incredibly strong, so creative, he was just so enthusiastic about dancing,” she said. “I just adored him, he was the most incredible personality, there was something very special about him.”
He also danced with Great British Bake Off host Alison Hammond in the 2015 Christmas special.
Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood described Windsor as “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.”
In a statement announcing his death, Sisco Entertainment told BBC News: “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.”
Former Strictly pro James Jordan said: “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.”
Dance company Burn The Floor said it had “lost one of its founding members”.
“He danced with us for 20 years, including Broadway, the West End and all our crazy adventures around the world,” they said in a statement on social media. “He leaves a void in our hearts.”
Windsor was born in Ipswich, Suffolk, Windsor first began dancing at the age of three when his parents enrolled him in classes in Ipswich, according to his website.
He moved to London aged 15 to pursue a dancing career and went on to represent England in numerous championships, both on the domestic and international levels.
Windsor was an advocate for mental health and worked closely with the Sane Charity.
Strictly professional Karen Hauer said she was “heartbroken”, describing Robin as a “beautiful human being”.
Her co-star Graziano Di Prima said he “still can’t believe it”, while Neil Jones posted: “Every moment I spent with Robin he was always a joy to be around with the biggest heart.”
