Robin Windsor death: Tributes from Susanna Reid, Amy Dowden and Lisa Riley after Strictly star dies suddenly

Windsor, who was forced to step back from the BBC One competition in 2013, is being remembered for his ‘infectious energy and warmth’

Robin Windsor and Lisa Riley on Strictly Come Dancing

Tributes flooded in for Robin Windsor, the former Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer, who has died at the age 44.

Windsor competed on the BBC One show for four series from 2010 to 2013, when he was forced to step down after a slipped disc left him paralysed for four days.

He made a special return to the show in 2014 for what would become Strictly’s first ever same-sex dance, which he performed alongside fellow pro Aljaž Škorjanec.

Windsor’s celebrity partners during his time on the series were actor Patsy Kensit, EastEnders star Anita Dobson, Emmerdale’s Lisa Riley and Dragon’s Den tycoon Deborah Meaden.

The dance company Windsor founded, Burn the Floor, announced his death, saying the dancer had “tragically passed away”.

Many stars, including Craig Revel Horwood, Karen Hauer and Susanna Reid, have paid tribute.

Key points

• Robin Windsor dies aged 44
• James Jordan pays tribute
• Susanna Reid fights back tears as she announces death of Strictly star

[20 February 2024 08:32 · Ellie Harrison]

Robin Windsor dies aged 44

News of Windsor’s death was announced by the dance company he founded, Burn the Floor, who said the dancer had “tragically passed away”. The statement added: “He leaves a void in our hearts that will never be filled, yet our wonderful memories will stay forever.”

Read the full story here:

[20 February 2024 08:33 · Ellie Harrison]

Former Strictly pro James Jordan pays tribute to ‘caring’ friend

Windor’s fellow ex-Strictly professional, James Jordan, paid tribute to the star, whom he called an “old friend”.

“I had the pleasure of working with this man for many years on Strictly – I have such fond memories of him,” Jordan wrote on Instagram, adding: “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.”

[20 February 2024 08:38 · Ellie Harrison]

Susanna Reid tearful as she announces death of Windsor

Good Morning Britain presenter Reid, 53, had danced with Windsor on Strictly’s Children In Need special back in 2011.

[20 February 2024 08:43 · Ellie Harrison]

Windsor’s ‘infectious energy and warmth’ is remembered

The star most recently appeared in stage show Come What May, a tribute to Moulin Rouge.

A statement from Sisco Entertainment, which represented him in various areas of theatre and corporate entertainment, said: “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.”

[20 February 2024 08:49 · Ellie Harrison]

Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood tweets about ‘dear friend'

The judge posted: “I have just heard the tragic news my dear friend ‘Bobby’ Robin Windsor has passed. He was one of the [most] 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.”

[20 February 2024 08:55 · Ellie Harrison]

Windsor’s ex, Marcus Collins, says ‘the world just got a lot less sparkly'

Windsor’s ex-boyfriend Collins, who featured on ITV reality competition The X Factor in 2011 and was mentored by Gary Barlow, has shared a tribute. The couple appeared on the cover of Gay Times together in 2014.

[20 February 2024 09:00 · Ellie Harrison]

Susanna Reid says Windsor made her ‘fall in love with dancing'

On today’s Good Morning Britain, Reid paid tribute to Windsor, who she had danced with in 2011 on the Strictly Come Dancing Children in Need Special.

After Ed Balls read out a statement from the Facebook page of the dance company Windsor founded, Burn the Floor, announcing the tragic news, Reid spoke about how there was something “very special” about Windsor.

“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.” she said.

“He was an absolutely remarkable dancer – incredibly strong, so creative. He’s just so enthusiastic about dancing. I just adored him. He was the most incredible personality and as soon as I danced with him, there was something very special about him.”

Reid turned to Richard Arnold, who had starred on the same show as Windsor in 2012.

Tearfully, Arnold said, “I can’t quite believe it, actually – such heart, such a talent, such a twinkler. It’s a bit of a shock to be honest.”

Reid went on to say she has “wonderful memories” of Windsor.

“He was a very special dancer – very sensual, wonderfully exuberant, endlessly enthusiastic, full of strength and creativity and sparkle. He made me fall in love with dancing. Anyone who watched Robin Windsor dance on Strictly, or Burn the Floor, or his other shows would have fallen in love with dance. He was just a fabulous, phenomenal personality.”

She called the news “devastating”.

[20 February 2024 09:20 · Ellie Harrison]

Reid and Windsor dancing together in 2011

A photo of the GMB presenter and the dancer performing together on a Children in Need special:

(PA)

[20 February 2024 09:30 · Ellie Harrison]

Lisa Riley shares post about her ‘bestie'

Riley, who got to fifth place with Windsor on Strictly, has posted a tribute:

[20 February 2024 09:40 · Ellie Harrison]

Former Strictly pro Erin Boag remembers ‘talented man'

“Such sad news to hear the passing of Robin Windsor,” she posted on Twitter/X. “A truly great talented man. My thoughts are with his family. Robin you will be missed by so many. RIP.”