Strictly star Robin Windsor sadly dies aged 44
He was partnered with celebrities including Dragon's Den star Deborah Meaden
Last updated 20th Feb 2024
Former Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor has sadly died at the age of 44.
The Ipswich-born dancer joined the BBC One show in 2010 and was partnered with celebrities including Dragon's Den star Deborah Meaden, and actresses Patsy Kensit and Anita Dobson.
His sad passing was confirmed in a social media post by dance show Burn the Floor, which he was an original member of.
They say his death "leaves a void in their hearts that will never be filled".
Since leaving Strictly Come Dancing, Robin had continued to perform on stages around the world, and teach dance lessons.
Tributes have been pouring in for the professional dancer.
Fellow former Strictly star James Jordon has led the way on X saying he had the pleasure of working with Robin for many years.
He added: 'Everyone who came into contact with him adored him, from his celebrity partners to his working colleagues.
'You will be missed old friend'.
In a statement, production company Sisco Entertainment announced Windsor's death "with heavy hearts".
Windsor had most recently been starring in Come What May, a Moulin Rouge tribute show.
Sisco said in a post that: 'Robin's presence in 'Come What May' was more than just a performance; it was an embodiment of passion, grace and sheer talent.'
They went on to say: 'Robin you will be deeply missed. Though 'Come What May' will continue without you, your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share in your light'.
Former Strictly contestant and partner of Robin, Lisa Riley, has also been paying tribute on X, saying: 'My Bestie. My Robin. My angel... now our forever angel, who is loved, will always be loved, forever in my heart... my very broken heart.
'I love you, shine your beautiful, electric energy from heaven'.
Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood shared his own tribute: "I have just heard the tragic news my dear friend ’Bobby’ Robin Windsor has passed.
"He was one of the kindest, gentle, honest, funny and caring people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and working with. He will be forever missed.
"My heart goes out to all his family & friends. RIP darling man, you were truly loved."
Shirley Ballas, in her tribute on X, said Robin will be "missed by so many": "I’m very saddened to hear the devastating news about this beautiful human being this morning.
"Robin Windsor… kind, gracious, gentle and extremely hard working.
"A wonderful dancer, true gentleman, good soul & so very young.
"You will be missed by so many. Rest in Peace."
"We have so many wonderful memories of an amazing person"
Robin was also an ambassador for a number of charities, among them the Make A Difference Trust, which raises funds for HIV and AIDS projects that build awareness and provide care, support and education.
Melanie Tranter, chair of the charity said:
"Robin was a dear friend and generous supporter of the Make A Difference Trust. I don’t think he ever said no to a request for support.
"We have so many wonderful memories of an amazing person who will be sadly missed by everyone he touched in his all too short life.
"One favourite memory was at A West End Christmas in 2020. Robin opened the show the most amazing routine to Jingle Bells. Full of energy, love and smiles. Just like him.
"Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this sad time."
Other famous faces we've lost this year:
Glynis Johns
Mary Poppins actress Glynis Johns, best known for her role as Mrs Banks in the 1964 film, sadly died at the age of 100 in January. Mitch Clem, her manager, said she's passed "peacefully" in Los Angeles.
Derek Draper
Kate Garraway announced on 5th January that her beloved husband Derek Draper had sadly passed away, after suffering a cardiac arrest in early December.
She wrote on Instagram: 'I'm sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away. As some of you may know he has been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December which, because of the damage inflicted by Covid in March 2020, led to further complications. Derek was surrounded by his family in his final days and I was by his side holding his hand throughout the last long hours and when he passed. I have so much more to say, and of course I will do so in due course, but for now I just want to thank all the medical teams who fought so hard to save him and to make his final moments as comfortable and dignified as possible. Sending so much love and thanks to all of you who have so generously given our family so much support. Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love, I was so lucky to have you in my life.' (sic)
David Soul
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Christian Oliver
German actor Christian Oliver, famous for his role in Speed Racer, was tragically killed alongside his two daughters in a helicopter crash in the Caribbean. The pilot was also sadly killed in the crash, which happened in January.
JPR Williams
Former Wales and British and Irish Lions full-back JPR Williams sadly died at the age of 74 in January. It's understood he passed away in hospital surrounded by his family after short illness battling bacterial meningitis.
Adan Canto
Designated Survivor and X-Men actor Adan Canto sadly passed away in January at the age of 42, following a battle with cancer. In a statement, his publicist Jennifer Allen said: "Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. He will be greatly missed by so many."
Georgina Hale
Bafta-winning actress Georgina Hale, best known for her role in Emmerdale and Hollyoaks, sadly died at the age of 80 in January. Tributes poured in for the popular actress, who also appeared in Doctor Who, Budgie, One Foot in The Grave, Minder, The Bill and A Rather English Marriage.
Annie Nightingale CBE
Annie Nightingale, trailblazing presenter and DJ, sadly died at the age of 83 in January, following a short illness. Her family confirmed the news in a statement, where they described her a "pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration to many."
Lynne Marta
Footloose, Joe Kidd and Starsky & Hutch actress Lynne Marta sadly passed away at the age of 78 in January, following a short battle with cancer. Marta's friend Chris Saint-Hilaire confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter.
Martin McCallum
British theatre director Martin McCallum, best known for shows such as Cats and Les Miserables, sadly passed away at the age of 73 in January, peacefully and surrounded by his beloved family.
Frank Farian
The founder of 'Daddy Cool' band Boney M, Frank Farian sadly passed away at the age of 82 in January. The German music producer, who founded the band back in 1974, died peacefully in his Miami apartment according to his representatives.
Mummy Pat Webb
Gogglebox star Pat Webb sadly died at the age of 75 in January following a long illness. Her son Stephen who she appeared alongside between series 10-12, announced the news on social media, with Gogglebox bosses also paying tribute to her online.
Chita Rivera
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Jonnie Irwin
After being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2020, and it later spreading to his brain, TV presenter Jonnie Irwin sadly passed away at the age of 50 in February. His family released a statement to confirm the sad news, with tributes pouring in from the world of entertainment.
Carl Weathers
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Aston Barrett
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Ian Lavender
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Michael Jayston
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Toby Keith
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Steve Wright
Legendary broadcaster Steve Wright sadly died at the age of 69 in February. In a statement shared with the BBC, Steve's family said: "It is with deep sorrow and profound regret that we announce the passing of our beloved Steve Wright."
Tributes poured in for the broadcaster from around the world, with fellow presenters Ken Bruce, Simon Mayo and Tony Blackburn all sharing their fond memories.
Robin Windsor
Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor sadly passed away at the age off 44 in February. Robin appeared on the show between 2010-2012, working with the likes of Deborah Meaden, Lisa Riley, Anita Dobson and Patsy Kensit. Tributes have poured in for Robin from the world of entertainment.
Ewen Macintosh
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John Savident
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Chris Nicholl
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Kenneth Mitchell
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Dave Myers
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Cat Janice
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M Emmet Walsh
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George Gilbey
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Chance Perdomo
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Sam Rubin
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David Sanborn
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Paul Spencer (Dario G)
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Bill Cobbs
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Shannen Doherty
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Bob Newhart
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Ray Reardon MBE
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Roberta Taylor
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John Mayall
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Janet Andrewartha
Actress Janet Andrewartha, best known for playing the role of Lyn Scully in Australian soap Neighbours, sadly died at the age of 72 in July. The Neighbours social media accounts announced the sad news, paying tribute. The post read: 'Everyone at Neighbours is deeply saddened by the passing of Janet Andrewartha. Beloved by viewers for her role as Ramsay Street's Lyn Scully, Janet will be remembered for her wide body of work, which includes her memorable turn as Reb Keane in Prisoner.'
Sven-Göran Eriksson
Former England football manager Sven-Göran Eriksson sadly passed away at the age of 76 in August, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. The Swede, who managed the likes of David Beckham, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard, admitted at the start of 2024 he only had a year to live "at best". Following his passing, tributes poured in from around the world.
Fatman Scoop
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Sol Bamba
Former footballer Sol Bamba passed away at the age of 39 in August. The former Cardiff, Middlesbrough and Leicester defender was working as a technical director at Turkish side Adanaspor, when he fell ill before a match and was taken to hospital.
A statement from the club said: "Our technical director Souleymane Bamba, who fell ill before the match against Manisa Football Club yesterday, was taken to Manisa Celal Bayar University Hospital and unfortunately lost his battle for life there.
"Our condolences to his family and our community."
Herbie Flowers
Esteemed bass guitarist Herbie Flowers, who worked with an array of rock icons, sadly died aged 86 in September 2024. A statement issued by a family member on Facebook read: 'While we knew and loved him as Uncle Herbie, his musical contributions have likely touched your lives as well. He played bass on many of the songs from the golden age of rock.
'As a studio musician in London in the 60s and 70s he got to know and contribute to the music of Elton John, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Marc Bolin, Cat Stevens, Harry Nilsson, Al Kooper, Melanie and many other popular musicians.'
James Earl Jones
Actor James Earl Jones, known around the world for being the voice of Darth Vader in Star Wars, and Mufasa in Disney's 1994 film The Lion King, sadly died at the age of 93 in September. Tributes from around the world of entertainment poured in for the actor following the news.
Tito Jackson
Original member of The Jackson 5, Tito Jackson, sadly died at the age of 70 in September. His three sons announced the sad news in a statement, writing: 'We are shocked, saddened and heartbroken. Our father was an incredible man who cared about everyone and their wellbeing.'
Dame Maggie Smith
Harry Potter and Downton Abbey actress Dame Maggie Smith sadly passed away at the age of 89 on Friday 27th September. Her sons Toby Stephens and Chris Larkin confirmed she died peacefully in hospital. They said in a statement: "It is with great sadness we have to announce the death of Dame Maggie Smith. She passed away peacefully in hospital early this morning, Friday 27th September. An intensely private person, she was with friends and family at the end. She leaves two sons and five loving grandchildren who are devastated by the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital for their care and unstinting kindness during her final days. We thank you for all your kind messages and support and ask that you respect our privacy at this time."
Kris Kristofferson
Grammy-winning singer and actor Kris Kristofferson sadly died at the age of 88 in late September. The American country star died "peacefully" at home in Maui, according to a statement issued on behalf of his family.
Cissy Houston
Grammy Award-winning singer Cissy Houston - mother of the legendary Whitney Houston - sadly died in early October 2024 surrounded by family in her New Jersey home, at the age of 91, having been under hospice care for Alzheimer's disease. On top of being the mother of the late Whitney Houston, Cissy was famed for her back-up singing for the likes of Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley, as well as her vocals featuring on records with names such as Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway, Jimi Hendrix, Luther Vandross, Beyonce, and even her daughter, Whitney. Her daughter-in-law said: "Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family. Mother Cissy has been a strong and towering figure in our lives... Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts."
Alex Salmond
The former First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond sadly passed away at the age of 69 in October, just hours after giving a public speech in North Macedonia. Following his sudden death, Alex's family released a statement, with tributes pouring in from the world of politics and royalty.
Liam Payne
One Direction singer Liam Payne sadly died at the age of just 31 in October, following a fall from a hotel balcony whilst he was on holiday in Argentina. Following the shock news, tributes poured in for Liam from around the world of entertainment, with his former One Direction band mates Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson, and Zayn Malik, all posting their own personal tributes.
Geoff Capes
Former strong man and British shot put record holder Geoff Capes sadly died at the age of 75 in October. His family confirmed the news of his death stating: "The family of Geoffrey Capes would like to announce his sad passing today, 23rd October. Britain's finest shot putter and twice world's strongest man."
Quincy Jones
Music producer Quincy Jones, who was known for his work with Michael Jackson and Frank Sinatra, sadly died at the age of 91 in early November. In a statement, his family said: "Tonight, with full but broken hearts, we must share the news of our father and brother Quincy Jones' passing. And although this is an incredible loss for our family, we celebrate the great life that he lived and know there will never be another like him."
Trevor Sorbie
Scottish-born stylist Trevor Sorbie, who gained fame with the creation of the wedge cut as well as his TV appearances, sadly died in November, just weeks after revealing he only had little time left after his bowel cancer had spread to his liver.
Timothy West
Actor Timothy West, well known for his roles on TV and theatre as well as his marriage to Prunella Scales, sadly died at the age of 90 in November. His family said he died peacefully in his sleep "with his friends and family at the end."
John Prescott
Former deputy prime minister John Prescott sadly died at the age of 86 following a battle with Alzheimer's. His family announced the sad news in a statement online in November.
Our thoughts are with Robin's family and friends at this sad time.