During his time on Strictly, Windsor partnered with Deborah Meaden, Lisa Riley, Anita Dobson and Patsy Kensit
By Steven McIntosh
Entertainment reporter
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 Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Lisa Riley and Deborah Meaden.
Strictly Come Dancing host Claudia Winkleman described the news of Windsor’s death as “heartbreaking”.
Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid became emotional as she announced Windsor’s death on Tuesday.
Watch: Emotional Susanna Reid announces Robin Windsor’s death on Good Morning Britain
“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.”
Windsor danced with Reid on a Children in Need special of Strictly. He was also paired 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.”
Reid danced with Windsor on a Children in Need special of Strictly Come Dancing in 2011
Former judge Bruno Tonioli added: “Incredibly sad shocking news. It was a pleasure working with Robin for many years at Strictly, so professional easy going a really good person.”
Actress Lisa Riley, who was paired with Windsor in 2012, posted: “My Bestie, My Robin, My Angel… now our forever Angel, who is loved, will always be loved, forever in my heart.
“I love you, shine your beautiful, electric energy from heaven.”
In a statement announcing Windsor’s death, Sisco Entertainment told BBC News: “His extraordinary ability to express emotion through movement captivated audiences, leaving them spellbound with every step.
Actress Lisa Riley, who danced with Windsor on Strictly, said he would be “forever in my heart”
“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.”
Windsor’s partners included Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden
Ballroom 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 Suffolk, and 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.
In addition to Strictly, Windsor appeared on Dancing with the Stars Australia and So You Think You Can Dance in Holland.
Windsor had most recently been starring in Come What May, a Moulin Rouge tribute show.
He was forced to pull out of Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 after suffering ongoing back problems caused by a slipped disc.
The following year, Windsor was paired with Anita Dobson – who remained in the competition for nine weeks
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.”
Posting on Instagram stories, Dianne Buswell said “it was a pleasure to share the stage” with Windsor, while Amy Dowden described him as a “kind, talented soul”.
In an Instagram comment, Strictly co-host Claudia Winkleman said it was “heartbreaking”, while former pro dancer Oti Mabuse said: “Robin was one of the kindest, loving, professional, creative and beautiful humans.”
Windsor was partnered with Patsy Kensit in 2010, his first year on Strictly Come Dancing
What are your memories of Robin Windsor? Did you meet or work with him? Email haveyoursay@bbc.co.uk.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a BBC journalist. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
If you are reading this page and can’t see the form you will need to visit the mobile version of the BBC website to submit your question or comment or you can email us at HaveYourSay@bbc.co.uk. Please include your name, age and location with any submission.
