Strictly Professional's Suicide Note Reveals Devastating Impact of BBC Departure
The late Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Robin Windsor left a suicide note in which he detailed how his treatment by the BBC following his departure from the show "destroyed" him. The 44-year-old dancer was found deceased in a London hotel room in February 2024, with an inquest now revealing the heartbreaking contents of two letters discovered near his body.
Career-Ending Injury and Sudden Exit from Strictly
Windsor had participated in the BBC's flagship dance competition for three consecutive years from 2010, partnering with notable celebrities including Patsy Kensit, Anita Dobson, Lisa Riley, and Deborah Meaden. However, his involvement with the programme came to an abrupt end in 2014 when producers reportedly did not invite him back following a serious back injury that required surgical intervention to remove a disc.
His former co-star and dance partner Kristina Rihanoff reportedly became emotional during the inquest hearing, describing how Windsor "changed significantly" after sustaining his injury. She characterised the Strictly environment as a "very lonely space with not much support" for performers facing health challenges.
Heartbreaking Contents of Suicide Notes Revealed
According to testimony presented at West London Coroner's Court, two separate notes were discovered in Windsor's hotel accommodation. The first letter, addressed to a friend, was read aloud during proceedings and contained devastating revelations about the dancer's mental state.
"This all really started when I lost my job on Strictly and have been fighting it ever since," Windsor wrote. "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 professional dancer went on to describe overwhelming emotional distress, writing: "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."
Windsor concluded the note with poignant reflection: "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."
A second letter addressed to his former partner, actor Ollie Augustin, reportedly contained the message: "I need you to understand that this is not your fault!"
Post-Strictly Career and Tributes from Colleagues
Following his departure from the BBC programme, Windsor continued his dance career through various avenues:
- Performing with the Burn The Floor dance company in West End productions and international tours
- Teaching dance lessons to beginners and offering specialised classes for same-sex couples
- Maintaining connections within the entertainment industry despite his professional setback
Following Windsor's tragic death in 2024, numerous colleagues and friends paid emotional tributes. Television presenter Susanna Reid struggled to contain her emotions during a live broadcast on Good Morning Britain, while Emmerdale star Lisa Riley wrote publicly about her "broken" heart upon learning of her former dance partner's passing.
Ongoing Inquest and Support Resources
The formal inquest into Robin Windsor's death continues, with further proceedings expected to examine the circumstances surrounding his passing. This tragic case has highlighted the significant mental health challenges that can accompany sudden career changes in high-pressure entertainment environments.
For anyone experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, support is available through several confidential channels:
- The Samaritans offer a 24-hour helpline at 116 123, email support at jo@samaritans.org, and in-person branch visits
- PAPYRUS UK operates the HOPELINE247 service daily at 0800 068 4141, with text support available at 88247
- Numerous mental health charities provide specialised assistance for those struggling with depression and anxiety
Metro has contacted the BBC for comment regarding the allegations contained within Windsor's suicide notes. The corporation has yet to issue a formal statement addressing the specific claims made by the late dancer about his treatment following his Strictly Come Dancing departure.
