The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of Robin Windsor, the former Strictly Come Dancing professional, who has died by suicide. An inquest concluded on , finding that Windsor, 44, took his own life after a period of mental health deterioration. The verdict brings a somber close to a case that has resonated deeply within the UK’s television community and beyond.
The inquest, held at West London Coroner’s Court, detailed a complex set of contributing factors to Windsor’s tragic decision. Jurors determined that he was “vulnerable to rejection both emotionally and professionally,” a sentiment echoed by those who knew him. The court heard evidence suggesting that childhood trauma, loneliness, a lack of consistent mental health support, mounting debts, and heartache all played a role in his declining mental state.
Windsor joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, quickly becoming a popular figure on the BBC One show. Over four series, he partnered with a range of celebrities including Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Lisa Riley, and Deborah Meaden. His vibrant personality and skilled dancing made him a fan favorite. However, a back injury sidelined him in 2014, and he was ultimately dropped from the professional lineup in 2015, though he did make a final appearance in the Christmas special that year alongside Alison Hammond.
The period following his removal from the main Strictly roster appears to have been particularly difficult. Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley, who was Windsor’s partner in 2012, provided a statement to the inquest describing a noticeable change in his demeanor. She stated that his “glow had gone” after being cut from the professional dancers’ lineup, and that he subsequently “kept slipping deeper and deeper into endless depression.” Riley also recounted Windsor’s struggles with feelings of inadequacy and “imposter syndrome.”
The family of Robin Windsor released a statement expressing their “profound sadness” at the inquest’s conclusion. “As a family, together with Robin’s close friends, we can now begin to move forward and attempt, over time, to rebuild our lives,” the statement read. They also expressed gratitude for the “kindness, compassion and support” received since his death in .
The BBC also issued a statement acknowledging the tragedy. A spokesperson said, “Our sympathies are with Robin’s family, friends and all who knew him. The whole of the Strictly Come Dancing family remain deeply saddened by his passing. Robin was a much-loved member of the team – both on and off air – during his time on the show.” The BBC acknowledged the complexity of factors contributing to Windsor’s mental health, as outlined during the inquest, and extended their thoughts to those who knew and loved him.
Windsor’s death has sparked renewed conversations about the pressures faced by performers and the importance of mental health support within the entertainment industry. He was an ambassador for the mental health charity Sane, and his family’s statement included a message encouraging those struggling with their mental health to seek help. They highlighted the availability of resources such as Sane and You Are Loved, a charity supporting the LGBT+ community.
Coroner Dr. Anton van Dellen, addressing the Windsor family in court, expressed hope that they could find solace in the joy and affection Robin brought to the public. “I hope you can think of the happy times he brought to the public and the deep affection the public held him in,” he said.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the hidden struggles that can affect even those who appear to be living successful and fulfilling lives. The inquest’s findings underscore the need for greater awareness of mental health issues, particularly within the demanding world of professional entertainment, and the critical importance of providing accessible and consistent support for those who need it. The loss of Robin Windsor is a tragedy that will be felt by many, and his story is a call for continued vigilance and compassion.
If you or someone you care for is struggling with mental health, support is available via organizations like Sane and You Are Loved. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In the US, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org
