On February 18, 2026, the world paused to reflect on the life and legacy of Robin Windsor, the charismatic professional dancer who once lit up the stage on the BBC’s hit show Strictly Come Dancing. Two years after his tragic death, an inquest has finally concluded, providing both closure and a poignant reminder of the silent battles faced by those in the public eye.
Robin Windsor, remembered for his infectious energy and dazzling performances, was found dead at age 44 in a hotel room in Shepherd’s Bush, London, in February 2024. The cause of death was ruled a suicide. As reported by BBC, the inquest jury determined that Windsor’s vulnerability to emotional and professional rejection was a significant factor in his declining mental health, ultimately contributing to his decision to end his life.
Coroner Dr. Anton van Dellen, who oversaw the proceedings, addressed Windsor’s family in the courtroom, expressing hope that they could "find solace in the joy he brought to many." He emphasized the deep affection the public held for Windsor, urging the family to cherish the positive memories he left behind. The BBC also extended its condolences, stating, "Our sympathies are with Robin’s family, friends, and all who knew him. The whole of the Strictly Come Dancing family remain deeply saddened by his passing." The broadcaster described Windsor as a "much-loved member of the team – both on and off air – during his time on the show."
The inquest revealed a web of complex factors that contributed to Windsor’s struggles. Friends, family, and former colleagues gave heartfelt testimonies about the emotional toll that followed his departure from Strictly Come Dancing. Actress Lisa Riley, who danced with Windsor on the show, recalled how he fell into "endless depression" after being dropped from the program. She described the period as one of profound sadness, exacerbated by mounting financial troubles and the breakdown of important relationships.
Marcus Collins, Windsor’s ex-boyfriend and a former X Factor star, echoed these sentiments. He told the court that Windsor’s mental health took a nosedive after learning in 2014 that he would no longer be part of the beloved show. According to Collins, "from 2016 onward, Windsor’s mental state was significantly affected," and the loss of his professional identity was compounded by fluctuating personal relationships and financial pressures.
Davide Cini, Windsor’s former fiancé, offered a deeply personal perspective in interviews and television appearances. Speaking with Alison Hammond and Dermot O’Leary on This Morning, Cini reflected, "It was a long journey to get here. We kind of knew what happened, our families and close friends. Obviously, the inquest had to happen, that took two years. It’s emotional, but it’s a time to look ahead and remember Robin…" He also shared the heartbreak of their shared dog, Lukaz, who at 15 years old still barks at the door, expecting Robin to return. "He still barks when the door rings because he thinks it is Robin which breaks my heart every time," Cini said.
Cini further revealed that Windsor did not show signs of depression or anxiety until after his removal from Strictly Come Dancing. "Until after he was no longer on the show, I had never seen Robin struggling with depression. I'd struggled in the past and he knew about it but he couldn't understand until later on in life when he started having these struggles himself," Cini explained. He noted the unique challenges faced by gay men in their forties, particularly within the LGBT community, and the importance of mental health support.
Windsor’s career on Strictly Come Dancing began in 2010, where he quickly became a fan favorite. He partnered with celebrities such as Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Lisa Riley, and Deborah Meaden, and later appeared in Christmas specials alongside Sara Cox and Alison Hammond. However, a back injury in 2014 forced him to withdraw from the main competition, and by 2015, he was formally dropped from the show. According to the inquest, this loss of professional identity marked the beginning of a difficult chapter for Windsor, as he struggled to adapt to life outside the limelight.
The court heard that Windsor left behind two suicide notes. In one, he confided to a close friend, "This all actually really started when I lost my place on Strictly and I have been fighting it ever since." He added, "The way they treated me destroyed me. It started me on the road I'm still on. All I wanted from life was to be happy. I loved my job more than anyone else." In another note to his ex-partner Ollie Augstin, Windsor wrote, "I need you to understand, this is not your fault!" These messages paint a picture of a man who, despite outward appearances of joy and confidence, was haunted by loss and loneliness.
The jury’s findings, as reported by The Mirror, were clear: Windsor’s death was the result of "an accumulation of many attributes to depression." The jury forewoman told the court, "Windsor suffered from childhood trauma, he was vulnerable to rejection, both emotionally and professionally." She added that "loneliness, the lack of emotional maturity, the pressure of mounting debts, the lack of consistent mental health care and support and recurring heartache" were all contributing factors.
In the wake of the inquest, attention has turned to Windsor’s legacy and the vital issue of mental health in the performing arts. Cini, determined to honor Windsor’s memory, highlighted the work of the non-profit organization You Are Loved and its initiative ‘Ask Bobby’—named after Windsor’s nickname. The service offers support to LGBT individuals struggling with mental health and bereavement, providing a directory of community resources. "We want a place where anyone struggling can go on this page. They tell you what services are available," Cini said.
Windsor’s story has sparked wider conversations about the pressures faced by those in high-profile careers, the need for accessible mental health support, and the importance of community. As Cini poignantly stated, "I would like for him to be remembered for the love and joy he brought and the support he wanted to give to the community. Robin’s motto was ‘keep dancing’. I want to keep his legacy going with the initiative."
For those experiencing similar distress, support is available through organizations such as the Samaritans (116 123, free helpline), as well as resources listed at bbc.co.uk/actionline. Windsor’s life and struggles serve as a powerful reminder that even those who bring joy to millions may carry invisible burdens, and that compassion and support can make all the difference.
As the curtain falls on this chapter, Windsor’s friends, family, and fans continue to celebrate the light he brought to the world, determined to ensure that his legacy of kindness, resilience, and dance endures.