Inquest Rules Strictly Come Dancing Star Robin Windsor’s Death Suicide by Overdose
Feb. 24, 2026 — London A coroner’s inquest concluded that professional dancer Robin Windsor, best known for appearing on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing from 2010 to 2013, died by suicide on February 19, 2024, at age 44, from an overdose involving high levels of alcohol and a “party drug.” The jury highlighted his vulnerability to emotional and professional rejection, including being dropped from the show and a breakup with partner Ollie, noting he lived in a “permanently dark place.”
Windsor was found dead in a hotel room in Shepherd’s Bush, west London, by a receptionist. He left suicide notes, including one to his ex-partner stating that being dropped from Strictly Come Dancing “destroyed” him, according to Sky News and BBC News.
Inquest Findings
The inquest, concluding in February 2026, determined the cause of death as suicide via overdose, with post-mortem results showing elevated alcohol levels and presence of a recreational drug, as reported by BBC News, RTE, and the Ipswich Star.
“Robin Windsor took his own life after a significant deterioration in his mental health,” stated BBC News coverage of the proceedings.
The jury emphasized Windsor’s struggles with rejection, including his exit from Strictly and personal relationship issues, per Manchester Evening News.
BBC Response
Following the inquest, the BBC issued a statement acknowledging Windsor’s contributions, as covered by the Mirror.
Background
Windsor, originally from Ipswich, gained fame partnering celebrities on Strictly from 2010 to 2013 before leaving the show. His death was first announced in February 2024 by BBC News.
