STRICTLY Come Dancing star Robin Windsor has died aged 44.
The professional dancer finished runner-up in the 2012 series of the hit BBC series with actress Lisa Riley.
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Tributes poured in Credit: PA: Press Association
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Susanna Reid with Robin in a special episode of Children in NeedCredit: PA
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Susanna Reid fought back tears live on air today Credit: GMB
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Robin and Deborah Meaden filmed together on the show Credit: Rex
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The last photo of Robin, who performed last month on the cruise ship Zasluge, has been published: Instagram
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The former Strictly pro left the show in 2014
Robin first appeared on the BBC series with Patsy Kensit in 2010, making it to week nine of the competition, before being eliminated at the same stage two years later with EastEnders legend Anita Dobson.
He reached week five with Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden in 2013.
He also appeared with newsreader Susanna Reid in a special episode for Children In Need in 2011 and Great British Bake Off host Alison Hammond in the 2015 Christmas special.
Susanna fought back tears when she learned of Robin’s death live on Good Morning Britain.
Susanna said: “He was an absolutely amazing dancer, strong, so creative, he was so passionate about dancing. I just adored him.
“He was the most amazing person. As soon as I danced with him, it was something really special.”
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After a break, she continued: “I have wonderful memories of you, Robin. He was very sensual, wonderfully exuberant. Full of strength and creativity. He made me fall in love with dance. He was an amazing, phenomenal personality.”
Robin quit Strictly in 2014, claiming he was sacked by bosses after “terrible back surgery”.
Speaking at the time, he said: “Leaving Strictly wasn’t my choice. I had a terrible back operation and they decided they didn’t want to call me back next year.
– It was probably for health and safety reasons, if something happened, but I was physically ready.
The news was confirmed by Sisco Entertainment who represented him in various areas of theater and corporate entertainment.
The statement read: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the tragic death of our beloved friend Robin Windsor.
“Robin’s presence in Come What May was more than just a performance; it was the embodiment of passion, grace and sheer talent.
“His extraordinary ability to express emotion through movement captivated the audience, leaving them mesmerized with every step.
“In addition to his flawless dancing, Robin’s lively spirit lit up the room, infusing rehearsals and performances with contagious energy and warmth. His laugh was infectious, his kindness boundless.
“His friendship was a gift cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Robin, you will be greatly missed.
“Although Come What May will go on without you, your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share your light.”
A statement from his agent added: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the tragic death of our beautiful Robin.
“Robin started dancing at a very early age and never stopped. He lit up every room he walked into, he was a nurturing soul always full of fun.
He brought so much happiness to anyone who saw him dance. Strictly Come Dancing, Burn The Floor and many other dance shows along with all the school children around the country he dedicated his time to.
“Robin was a strong advocate for mental health and worked closely with the ‘Sane Charity’. The dance world has lost some of its luster today.”
Tributes have poured in for Robin following the tragic announcement of his death.
His former partner and former X Factor finalist Marcus Collins shared a photo of the pair together.
He wrote: “The world just got a lot less glittery. Robin, you were so loved.”
Robin’s former Strictly partner Lisa Riley shared a collage of photos on Instagram.
She said: “My best, my Robin, my angel… now our eternal angel, who is loved, will always be loved, forever in my heart… my very broken heart, I love you, shine with your beautiful, electric energy from heaven. Shine. in peace.”
Strictly co-star James Jordan said: “I’ve had the pleasure of working with this man for many years on Strictly.
“Everyone who came into contact with him adored him, from his celebrity partners to work colleagues. You will be missed old friend.”
Burn The Floor, an international dance and Latin dance company co-founded by Robin, added: “A BTF journeyman, he’s danced with us for twenty years – including Broadway, the West End and all our crazy adventures around the world.
“His stunning image alongside Jessica Raff defined our company, colourful, extreme and sensual.
“His talent, attitude, energy and personality helped build the reputation of the Burn the Floor stage.
“He leaves a void in our hearts that will never be filled, but our wonderful memories will remain forever.”
Devastated Susanna Reid fights back tears when she learns Strictly partner Robin Windsor has died live on GMB
Outside of Strictly, Robin has also performed in the West End and Broadway.
Enrolled at a local dance school in Ipswich at the age of three, he went on to study ballroom and Latin dances before representing England at international level.
Robin’s big break came in 2001 when he was cast in the popular play Burn The Floor which toured the world and ran for nine months on Broadway.
He then appeared on Dancing with the Stars Australia and So You Think You Can Dance in the Netherlands before his Strictly break in the UK.
After leaving the show, Robin “how people can be empowered through dance”.
He spent his time between London with his dog Lukas and Saint Lucia at The Body Holiday resort.
The star recently appeared in the play Come What May, dedicated to the Moulin Rouge.
Robin also spent most of January working aboard the MS Bolette with Fred Olsen Cruises.
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Patsy Kensit and Robin perform the Cha Cha Cha Credits: Manual
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Robin Windsor at the Float Like A Butterfly Ball in November 2019. Credit: Rex
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