Strictly Star's Ex-Fiance Opens Up on Mental Health Battle After Show Exit
Davide Cini, the former fiance of Robin Windsor, has publicly discussed the professional dancer's profound struggles with anxiety and depression, which preceded his tragic death by suicide two years ago. Speaking on ITV's This Morning, Cini shared intimate details of Windsor's mental health decline, which he attributes largely to the dancer's exit from Strictly Come Dancing.
The Impact of Strictly Departure
Cini revealed that he first noticed Windsor grappling with severe anxiety and depression after the dancer was dropped from the BBC competition in 2015. This followed a back injury sustained during a cast party in Blackpool, resulting in a slipped spinal disk and nerve problems. Cini explained, "Until after he was no longer on the show, I had never seen Robin struggling with depression. I'd struggled in the past and he knew about it, but he couldn't understand until later in life when he started having these struggles himself. Things degraded along the years, unfortunately. He was struggling."
Heartbreaking Notes and Inquest Findings
Last week, an inquest into Windsor's death uncovered notes left by the dancer, where he expressed that losing his job on Strictly "destroyed" him and marked the beginning of his mental health decline. The 44-year-old was found dead in a hotel room on February 19, 2024, with a post-mortem ruling his death likely resulted from a combination of alcohol and drug overdose. The inquest jury concluded that Windsor was "vulnerable to rejection both emotionally and professionally," recording his death as suicide.
Personal Reminders and Relationship Details
Cini also shared poignant daily reminders of Windsor's passing, noting that their shared dog, Luka, still barks at the doorbell, hoping it might be Robin returning home. He described their enduring friendship post-engagement, with Windsor living with him intermittently for about six to seven years, including during lockdowns. Cini fondly recalled Windsor as "wonderful, caring, and loving," with a vibrant personality that matched his on-screen presence.
Career and Legacy
Robin Windsor, a celebrated Latin and ballroom dancer, joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 and participated in four series before his contract was not renewed in 2015. His career included world championship wins, a decade-long tour with Burn The Floor, and appearances on international dance shows. Despite offers for Strictly spin-offs, friends testified at the inquest that his axing had a "very severe" psychological impact, leaving him desperate to return to the show.
Broader Context and Support
The inquest heard that Windsor had faced mental health challenges since childhood, exacerbated by a recent relationship split. He had been on suicide watch during a pantomime engagement in late 2023. The BBC expressed condolences, acknowledging the complex factors contributing to his death. This case highlights ongoing discussions about mental health support in high-pressure entertainment industries.
