Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor died by suicide following a deterioration in his mental health, an inquest jury has concluded. Windsor, who appeared on the BBC One dance competition between 2010 and 2013, passed away in February 2024 at the age of 44.
Inquest Findings
The jury at West London Coroner’s Court determined that Windsor’s death was the result of multiple factors contributing to depression. They cited childhood trauma, vulnerability to rejection, loneliness, mounting debts, lack of consistent mental health care, and recurring relationship struggles as key elements in his decline.
The jury foreperson said: “Robin Jamie Windsor suffered from childhood trauma, he was vulnerable to rejection both emotionally and professionally… loneliness, the lack of emotional maturity, the pressure of mounting debts, the lack of consistent mental health care and support and recurring heartache are all contributing factors.”
Coroner’s Statement
Coroner Dr. Anton van Dellen offered condolences to Windsor’s family, highlighting the joy he brought to audiences: “I hope the family can take some comfort from the joy that Robin brought to so many people and the positive effect he had. That is a wonderful legacy.”
Testimonies From Friends and Co-Stars
The inquest heard that Windsor’s mental health worsened after he was dropped from Strictly. Actress Lisa Riley, one of his dance partners, said he slipped “deeper and deeper into endless depression” and struggled with debts and failed relationships.
Singer Marcus Collins, Windsor’s former partner, testified that losing his role on Strictly in 2014 “really broke his spirit.” He added that Windsor’s mental health remained compromised for years, with friendships and relationships often unstable. Windsor left a note referencing his struggles with loneliness, financial pressures, and the impact of losing his job on Strictly.
Legacy
Windsor, originally from Ipswich, partnered celebrities including Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Deborah Meaden, Sara Cox, and Alison Hammond during his time on Strictly. He was remembered as a brilliant dancer who brought joy to audiences and left a lasting mark on the show.
