Robin Windsor: Late Strictly star spoke of how BBC show 'destroyed him' in his suicide note, inquest told - cause of death revealed
Late Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor wrote about being “destroyed” by his exit from the BBC show in his suicide note, it has been revealed.
The 44-year-old professional dancer died in 2024, leading to an outpouring of grief from his fans and peers alike who were all shocked by his untimely and sudden death.
The contents of the suicide note Robin left have now been revealed. The tragic star wrote: "This all really started when I lost my job on Strictly and have been fighting it ever since. 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. The heartache, the loneliness, the constant sadness. I just live permanently in a dark place. I just can’t live like this anymore. It’s just too painful.
“I had a good run, I’ve done some incredible things in my 44 years and had an unreal life doing what I loved, but all things must come to an end and my curtain has come down for the final time.
The dancer was found dead in a hotel bed by a receptionist, and police and medics were called to the scene, in February 2024. PC Emily Hampson said at the first day of his inquest that she found two notes near him. In a second note, addressed to his ex, actor Ollie Augustin, Robin wrote: "I need you to understand that this is not your fault!"
Robin's fellow Strictly star Kristina Rihanoff, who danced with him on and off during his time the show, also gave evidence. She said the BBC one show could be a "very lonely space with not much support." The Russian born professional dancer explained the "very severe" the "psychological impact" that leaving the show had on her close friend - as he "couldn't do what he loved" due to his back injury. She added that is was "heartbreaking" to see him so "sad, subdued and burdened".
The inquest heard that a post-mortem ruled Windsor's death was likely an overdose on drugs and alcohol.
Robin appeared on the hugely popular BBC competition show for four season from 2010 until 2014. During his time on the show, the talented dancer was the partner of Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Lisa Riley and Deborah Meaden. He quit the show due to injury after a slipped disc left him paralysed for four days.
The inquest heard that a post-mortem ruled Robin's cause of death was likely an overdose on drugs and alcohol.
- If you are suffering with suicidal thoughts, you can contact The Samaritans on 116 123 for free, confidential support People with hearing problems or other communication difficulties can text 07889 036 280.