Strictly Come Dancing Star Robin Windsor's Death Inquest Reveals Heartbreaking Note
An inquest has heard that Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor left a note stating that the way he was treated when dropped from the show "destroyed me". The professional dancer was 44 years old when he was found deceased in a hotel room in Shepherd's Bush, west London, in February 2024.
Details from the Coroner's Court
Coroner Dr Anton van Dellen informed jurors at West London Coroner's Court on Wednesday that police discovered a note in the room where Windsor was found. In this note, Windsor expressed that he had been "fighting it" since losing his job on the popular BBC dance competition. Windsor joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 and participated in four series until 2013, partnering with notable figures such as actresses Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, and Lisa Riley, as well as Dragons' Den star Deborah Meaden.
Due to a back injury, he was unable to perform in the 2014 series and was subsequently dropped in 2015, although he did appear in the Christmas special that year with TV presenter Alison Hammond.
Emotional Testimonies from Friends and Colleagues
In a written statement presented to the court, Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley described how Windsor's "glow had gone" after his removal from the professional dancers' lineup. She stated, "It was from this moment, on to the time of his death, he kept slipping deeper and deeper into endless depression." Riley further revealed that Windsor confided in her about feelings of inadequacy and imposter syndrome, as well as a traumatic incident where he was molested by an old dance tutor, feeling his parents never fully understood this.
She added that Windsor was insecure about his body and used steroids, which could exacerbate negative effects when combined with alcohol. Riley also noted he was "drowning in debts" and spent money recklessly on designer items beyond his means, contributing to his darker periods.
Impact of Strictly Come Dancing Exit on Mental Health
Summing up the evidence, Dr van Dellen read excerpts from a statement by Windsor's ex-boyfriend, X Factor star Marcus Collins. Collins indicated that Windsor's mental health significantly declined after he was released from his Strictly contract, saying, "The day that he was informed that he was no longer required for Strictly really broke his spirit. Robin's mental health was challenged almost constantly from this point and at times it altered his personality."
When approached by Sky News, a BBC spokesperson declined to comment, citing the ongoing inquiry. This case highlights the severe emotional toll that professional setbacks can have, particularly in high-pressure entertainment industries.
Support Resources Available
For anyone experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, support is available through various channels:
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org in the UK.
- Mind: Call the support line on 0300 102 1234.
- NHS: Call 111 for urgent medical advice.
