Strictly Come Dancing Star Robin Windsor's Personal Struggles Revealed at Inquest
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor was found deceased in a hotel room in Shepherd's Bush, West London, in 2024, with an ongoing inquest shedding light on his profound personal challenges. Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley, who partnered with Windsor during the 2012 series, provided a poignant written statement to West London Coroner's Court, describing his descent into depression following his departure from the BBC show.
The Glow That Faded After Strictly Exit
Robin Windsor, a celebrated Latin and ballroom dancer who joined Strictly in 2010, was dropped from the program in 2015 after missing the 2014 series due to a back injury. Lisa Riley testified that from that moment onward, Windsor "kept slipping deeper and deeper into depression," observing that "his glow had gone." The pair had developed an "incredible trust" during their time together, with Riley recalling they were "literally joined at the hip" and that Windsor became her rock following her mother's passing in July 2012.
Personal Demons and Financial Pressures
Riley's statement revealed Windsor battled significant insecurities, including "never feeling good enough" and suffering from "imposter syndrome." She noted his vulnerability to romantic influences, joking that he "fell in love after three days." Additionally, Windsor struggled with body image issues, resorting to steroid use which, combined with alcohol consumption, exacerbated his mental health decline.
Financial difficulties compounded his troubles, with Riley stating he was "drowning in debts" and spending "frantically" on designer items beyond his means. "Money problems also played a part of his darker days," she testified, describing periods where his debt led to weekends without communication.
Final Communications and Legacy
The actress last contacted Windsor around Christmas 2023 after seeing a "really dark" Facebook post from him. He responded that he was "fine, just usual ups and downs of life." Windsor's Strictly career included memorable partnerships with actresses Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, and Lisa Riley, as well as Dragon's Den investor Deborah Meaden across four series until 2013. He made a final appearance in the 2015 Christmas special, dancing alongside TV presenter Alison Hammond.
The inquest continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the 44-year-old dancer's death, with Riley's testimony highlighting the complex interplay of professional setbacks, personal demons, and financial strains that marked his final years.
