Strictly star Robin ‘Bobby’ Windsor’s final dance partner says she was ‘next to him on his darkest nights’ in tribute
STRICTLY star Robin “Bobby” Windsor’s final dance partner has said she was “next to him on his darkest nights” in a heartbreaking tribute.
The former Strictly pro has died aged 44 following a glittering career, his agency announced today.
The final public photo of Robin showed him smiling on a cruise ship next to dancer Gordana Grandosek Whiddon.
Gordana shared a touching tribute to her friend and dance partner with The Sun.
In the tribute, she said: “Robin Bobby – I can’t believe you are gone.
“You were the light, the rainbow, the sun, the warmth, the smile, energy, you were too fragile for this world.
“You only wanted to be loved. I treasure our memories from begging to the end.
“From Biloxi, Mississippi to Mardi Gras in New Orleans to Japan and Broadway for the 25th anniversary of Burn the Floor.
“Endless parties. Oh how I don’t regret a single night partying and drinking with you while rehearsing and doing what we loved.
“We all had so much fun. Late nights walking around, talking laughing.
“I was privileged to be next to you on the darkest nights, hugged you when you cried.
“It seemed you got out of the shadows but you never did. I tried so hard but it was not enough.
“We had an unforgettable cruise and last dance with you. I love you Bobby boy for ever.”
It comes as…
- Co-star James Jordan leads tributes for dancing pro James Jordan
- The Strictly star posted on social media just days before he passed
- Inside Robin’s relationship with ex-boyfriend & X-Factor star Marcus Collins
- He was forced to quit Strictly ‘or risk ending up in wheelchair’
- Susanna Reid fought back tears on today’s Good Morning Britain after learning of the death
- Photos show Robin smiling on cruise just weeks before his passing
Robin finished runner-up on the 2012 Strictly series with actress Lisa Riley and became one of the show’s most recognisable faces.
He first appeared on the 2010 season with Patsy Kensit, before partnering Anita Dobson two years later and Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden in 2013.
Robin also partnered Susanna Reid and Alison Hammond in one-off specials.
His death was confirmed by Sisco Entertainment, which said Robin’s friendship “was a gift cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him”.
It is not known how he died.
Susanna Reid fought back tears as she learned of Robin’s death live on Good Morning Britain.
She said: “He was an absolutely remarkable dancer, strong, so creative, he was just so enthusiastic about dancing. I just adored him.
“He was the most incredible personality. As soon as I danced with him there was something really special about it.”
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.”
A statement from dance show Burn The Floor, in which Windsor appeared for many years, said: “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 20 years, including Broadway, The West End and all our crazy adventures around the world.”
The company shared a photo of him on stage with fellow dancer Jessica Raffa, adding: “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.”
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