Strictly star Robin Windsor has passed away aged 44, his dance company has announced.
The professional dancer - who started dancing aged just three - joined the hit BBC show back in 2010, taking to the dance floor with a whole host of celebs including model Patsy Kensit, Emmerdale actor Lisa Riley and Dragon’s Den star Deborah Meaden.
Windsor exited the show in 2013 following an injury which left him paralysed for four days, but returned two years later to perform with This Morning presenter Alison Hammond in the Christmas special.
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At the time of his exit from the show, the star called it 'heartbreaking' but stressed he had 'no choice' due to suffering from a slipped disc.
Most recently, the dancer had been starring in Moulin Rouge tribute show Come What May.
Announcing the news of his tragic death, a statement on the official page of the dance company he founded, Burn the Floor, reads: "The Burn the Floor family has lost one of its founding members, Robin 'Bobby' Windsor - who has tragically passed away."
The statement continued: "A BTF journeyman he danced with us for twenty years - including Broadway, The West End and all our crazy adventures around the world.
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"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.”
Leading the tributes was fellow Strictly professional James Jordan, who posted on X: "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."
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Meanwhile, presenter Ellie Phillips wrote: "Such a warm, talented, gorgeous human. He really was genuinely lovely, funny & kind. This is a real loss."
Theatre website All That Dazzles added: "So sad to wake up to the awful news that Robin Windsor has passed away. We talked on here a fair bit and he was always incredibly lovely. Sending all my love to all who knew him."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.
Topics: Strictly Come Dancing, Celebrity
Chloe Rowland