Giovanni Pernice has shared a heartbreaking post as he paid tribute to former Strictly Come Dancing star Robin Windsor.

Pro dancer Robin, who was part of the original Strictly line up and appeared on the BBC show for four seasons, died in February at the age of just 44. Friends have since spoken out about his mental health and battles with depression and how the hopeless romantic “just wanted to be loved”.

When the news of his passing first broke, details such as the date or the cause of his death were not known. However, it has since been reported that the popular star was found dead inside a London hotel room, after previously confiding in a friend about a “troubling incident” that took place over New Year.

He was laid to rest in his hometown of Ipswich in March with many of his Strictly pals being present at the funeral which was for “invited family, friends and colleagues who were important to Robin in both his personal life and professional career.”

Posting a poignant picture to his Instagram stories along with a string of red heart emojis, Robin’s pal Giovanni revealed a new West End show will celebrate Robin’s life. Called ‘Robin Windsor The Final Act’, tickets go on sale tomorrow at 10am and the show will take place on Sunday November 3. All profits from ticket sales are set to go to mental health charity SANE.

Giovanni Pernice heartbroken
Gio shared this poignant post about a new show in memory of late Strictly star Robin ( 
Image:
Instagram)

Lisa Riley pays tribute to Robin Windsor

Lisa Riley, who is hosting the special show, also paid tribute to her ‘angel’ ( 
Image:
Instagram)
The show in memory of Robin is set to be hosted by Strictly judge Anton Du Beke and Emmerdale star Lisa Riley, who was once partnered with Robin. Another of his celebrity partners, Dragon Deborah Meaden will also take part, with many more names still to be announced.

Both of Robin’s former partners have publicly paid to him following his death. Lisa, best known for playing Mandy Dingle in Emmerdale, called him an “angel”. Also posting about the show for Robin, she said on Instagram: “So so so proud to be hosting this INCREDIBLE night of talent with @mrantondubeke.

“A live show at THEATTRE ROYAL DRURY LANE in London’s WEST END… a night dedicated to my best friend @robinwindsor my for always angel… I love you and miss you so much. Tickets go on sale TOMORROW MORNING at 10am all proceeds going to Robin’s personal charity SANE @charitysane don’t wait as I feel it will sell out VERY fast!”

Deborah, who is also taking part in the charity show for Robin, posted a lengthy tribute when his death was announced and said: “I have been thinking of Robin (Bobby) since I heard the devastating News. Thinking of his Family, friends, loved ones who will be aching at the loss. I have also been thinking of what to say. Robin was a good Man.

“He was kind and incredibly generous, supporting so many charities, helping so many people and giving so much of himself wherever he went. He lit up a room with his fun and energy and certainly his sparkle…he was never happier than when he was covered in crystals! He was talented, clever (a great partner for a quiz), and fun.”