Robin Windsor Struggled After Leaving Strictly Come Dancing
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor experienced severe depression after his departure from the popular BBC One show, actress and former dance partner Lisa Riley revealed at his inquest. Windsor, who passed away in February 2024 at age 44, was a professional competitor on the show from 2010 to 2013. He also appeared in the 2014 and 2015 Christmas specials.
Windsor could not take part in the 2014 main series due to a back injury and was not included in the 2015 series. Riley said in her written statement that from that point, he “kept slipping deeper and deeper into endless depression,” and his usual glow had disappeared.
Personal and Financial Struggles
Riley explained that Windsor faced money issues and difficulties in his personal relationships, which worsened his mental health. She recalled the joyful times they shared, especially when they partnered in the 2012 series and later for the 2014 Christmas special. “We were literally joined at the hip,” Riley said, highlighting the close bond and trust they built over time.
Windsor confided in Riley about feeling “never good enough” and suffering from imposter syndrome. He was also insecure about his body and admitted to using steroids along with alcohol, which negatively affected his mental state.
Friends and Colleagues Observe His Decline
Singer and former boyfriend Marcus Collins stated that Windsor’s mental health deteriorated in 2014 after learning he would no longer be part of Strictly. Collins added that from 2016 to 2024, Windsor struggled to maintain friendships and relationships.
Maintaining a Positive Image Despite Inner Struggles
Deborah Meaden, Windsor’s partner on the 2013 series, described him as consistently bright and positive on screen, even during personal difficulties like a broken engagement. She said he sometimes appeared tearful or distracted, but she was unaware of more serious issues aside from his back pain.
Windsor’s previous partners included Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Sara Cox, and Alison Hammond, both in the main series and Christmas specials. The coroner also read a note from Windsor, explaining that his depression and struggles with loneliness began after leaving Strictly.
