Strictly Come Dancing Star Robin Windsor's Tragic Downfall Revealed at Inquest
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor, who was found deceased in a London hotel room in 2024, had been battling severe personal demons after his departure from the hit BBC show, according to emotional testimony at his inquest.
Lisa Riley's Heartfelt Account of Windsor's Struggles
Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley, who partnered with Windsor during his 2012 Strictly appearance, provided a written witness statement to West London Coroner's Court describing how the dancer's "glow had gone" following his removal from the program. Riley revealed that Windsor descended into deepening depression from the moment he was dropped in 2015, despite appearing in that year's Christmas special with television presenter Alison Hammond.
The actress recalled their immediate connection during the competition, stating: "To say we hit it off was an understatement. We were literally joined at the hip. I had only just lost my mum in the July. I, myself, was in a very difficult place. Robin was my rock."
A Career Cut Short and Personal Turmoil
Robin Windsor joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 as a Latin and ballroom specialist, dancing with notable partners including actresses Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, and Lisa Riley, alongside Dragon's Den investor Deborah Meaden across four series until 2013. A back injury prevented his participation in the 2014 season, leading to his eventual removal from the professional lineup the following year.
Riley described how Windsor confided in her about experiencing "imposter syndrome" and "never feeling good enough," despite his professional success. "Robin was and always has been very influenced by other men," she noted, adding that it became "a standing joke that he fell in love after three days."
Financial Pressures and Substance Issues
The inquest heard troubling details about Windsor's financial situation and personal habits during his final years. Riley testified that the dancer was "drowning in debts" and engaged in frantic spending on designer items he couldn't afford. "Money problems also played a part of his darker days," she stated. "He was drowning in debts which led to weekends I wouldn't hear from him."
Jurors learned that Windsor struggled with body image insecurities and used steroids, which combined with alcohol consumption would "put him in a bad place." Riley maintained that despite these challenges, they had built "incredible trust" and remained close friends who shared everything.
Final Communications and Ongoing Investigation
Riley's last contact with Windsor occurred around Christmas 2023, when she texted him after seeing a "really dark" post on his Facebook profile. "I of course text him straight away and he replied saying he was 'fine, just usual ups and downs of life'," she recounted to the court.
The 44-year-old dancer was discovered deceased in a Shepherd's Bush hotel room in West London in 2024. The inquest into his death continues as authorities work to determine the exact circumstances surrounding this tragic loss to the entertainment community.
