Susanna Reid pays emotional tribute to ex-Strictly partner Robin Windsor: 'I fell in love with him and fell in love with dancing'

Reid, who danced with Windsor for a Children in Need special in 2011, was emotional as she read out news of the dancer’s death on Tuesday
Lizzie Edmonds @lizzieedmo20 February 2024
The Weekender

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Susanna Reid was visibly shocked and emotional on Good Morning Britain as she announced the death of Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor.

It was confirmed on Tuesday that Windsor, 44, who danced with names including Lisa Riley, Patsy Kensit, Deborah Meaden and Anita Dobson, had sadly passed away.

Windsor performed on Strictly until 2015 when he was forced to pull out of the show due to a slipped disc injury. The star most recently appeared in stage show Come What May, a tribute to Moulin Rouge.

On Tuesday morning, a stunned Reid, 53, who danced with Windsor on the Strictly Children In Need special back in 2011, couldn't read out the breaking news announcement.

She asked co-star - and fellow former Strictly star Ed Balls - to take over instead.

She did manage to say: “We have some very sad news to break.

Susanna Reid and Robin Windsor performing on Strictly Come Dancing for Children in Need (Guy Levy/BBC/PA)
PA Media

“A much loved member of the Strictly Come Dancing family because on their Facebook page today... I'm sorry I'm not going to be able to read this Ed because I danced with... it's about Robin Windsor.”

The show’s celebrity reporter Richard Arnold was also shaken at the sad news.

The dancer's death was first announced by Burn The Floor, a live show Windsor was involved with, on Facebook in the early hours of this morning.

A post about his passing read: “The Burn the Floor family has lost one of its founding members, Robin “Bobby” Windsor - who has tragically passed away.

"A BTF journeyman he danced with us for twenty years - including Broadway, The West End and all our crazy adventures around the world. 

“His stunning image attached with Jessica Raffa defined our company, colourful, extreme and sensual. His talent, attitude, energy and personality helped create the Burn the Floor stage reputation. 

“He leaves a void in our hearts that will never be filled, yet our wonderful memories will stay forever."

A statement from Sisco Entertainment, which represented him in various areas of theatre and corporate entertainment, said: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of our beloved friend, Robin Windsor.

“Robin’s presence in Come What May was more than just a performance; it was an embodiment of passion, grace and sheer talent.

Richard Arnold speaking about the death of Robin Windsor
ITV

“His extraordinary ability to express emotion through movement captivated audiences, leaving them spellbound with every step.

“Beyond his impeccable dancing, Robin’s vibrant spirit lit up the room, infusing rehearsals and performances with infectious energy and warmth. His laughter was contagious, his kindness boundless.

“His friendship was a gift cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. 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.”

Tributes to the star began to pour in on Tuesday morning.

Strictly co-star James Jordan said: "I had the pleasure of working with this man for many years on Strictly.

"Everyone who came in contact with him adored him, from his celebrity partners to his working colleagues. You will be missed old friend."

Judge Craig Revel Horwood added: “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.”

Emmerdale star Riley, 47, reached the semi-final with Windsor - his most successful stint on the show.

Taking to Twitter, she wrote: "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. SHINE IN PEACE.”

News reader and former contestant Dan Walker added: “How sad to hear about the death of Robin Windsor.

“Just 44 years old! He sent me the kindest message when I was on Strictly and he was loved by so many on that show.”

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