Category: Anita Dobson

EastEnders legend Anita Dobson stuns fans as she reprises iconic role of Angie Watts after 37 years for 40th anniversary special in ‘TV moment of the year’

Anita Dobson left EastEnders fans gobsmacked on Wednesday, as she made a surprise return as the iconic Angie Watts for the soap’s special anniversary episode.

The actress, 75, played the Queen Vic’s first landlady from the show’s very first episode in 1985 before bowing out three years later.

And to celebrate the soap’s 40th year anniversary, she made a brief cameo in the hour-long special with a heart-wrenching scene with her onscreen daughter Sharon – 37 years after she last played the iconic character.

Anita’s character Angie famously died off-screen of alcohol poisoning in 2002 but she returned in the form of a vision for her daughter Sharon – played by Letitia Dean.

In the poignant scene, Angie visited Sharon her and begging her to scream for help, where she lay trapped under a broken staircase.

The emotional scene saw Angie looking like she hadn’t aged a day, as she sported her famous brown curls and red lipstick.

Anita Dobson left EastEnders fans gobsmacked on Wednesday, as she made a surprise return as the iconic Angie Watts for the soap’s special anniversary episode

The actress, 75, played the Queen Vic’s first landlady from the show’s very first episode in 1985 before bowing out three-years later (pictured in September)

And to celebrate the soap’s 40th year anniversary, she made a brief cameo in the hour-long special with a heart-wrenching scene with her onscreen daughter Sharon (pictured)

She told her injured daughter: ‘You’re not giving up on us are you Sharon? Hello darling. I’ve missed you so much.

‘I wish I could just put my arms around you and give you a great big hug. But it’s not time for us to be together yet darling.’

Sharon admitted she was scared and her mother replied: ‘We’re all scared aren’t we? I mean look at me, spent my whole life being scared. But you’ve got to keep fighting Sharon.’

A weak Sharon confessed: ‘I need you’ causing Angie to become teary-eyed as she said: ‘Me? No, you don’t need me, because I’ve been watching over you and let me tell you, you are doing just fine on your own.’

She then pleaded with her daughter: ‘But you’ve got to be strong for me now Sharon, do you understand me? You’ve got a lot of life yet to live. Don’t throw it away. Don’t waste it like I did.

‘So don’t give up, do you hear me? You mustn’t give up, because we don’t give up do we? We are fighters Sharon. So come on my darling use that voice and you start screaming for help.’

As Sharon began to call out for help, Angie smiled through her tears and cried: ‘Go on Sharon go on! Louder! That’s it baby, keep screaming. Yes, that’s my girl’ before fading from view.

And viewers watching at home were left ‘screaming’ at the shock cameo, taking to X to admit they were ‘shook to the core’ and had ‘goosebumps’ at seeing Angie again, branding it the ‘tv moment of the year’.

They wrote: ‘i can’t believe we had an anita dobson cameo in 2025, i am truly shook to the core… best thing i’ve ever seen’; ‘ANGIE WATTS OH MY GOOD LORD’.

Sharon – played by actress Letitia Dean – saw a vision of her mother Angie visiting her and begging her to scream for help, where she lay trapped under a broken staircase

The emotional scene saw Angie looking like she hadn’t aged a day, as she sported her famous brown curls and red lipstick (pictured on soap in 1980s)

She tearfully pleaded with Sharon not to give up, saying: ‘You’ve got to be strong for me now Sharon, do you understand me? You’ve got a lot of life yet to live. Don’t throw it away. Don’t waste it like I did’

‘The nation screamed’; ‘Chris Clenshaw really did say “let’s make it legendary”. WHAT A PLOT TWIST TO SEE ANGIE WATTS.’

‘OMG! Angie!!!!! Dreams really do come true! I’m so damn happy she’s back for their 40th to the day episode!’; ‘She hasn’t aged a day and still a powerhouse of an actress’.

‘What a genius way of bringing back Angie Watts!! The wonderful Anita Dobson!’; ‘Amazing cameo that totally made sense for the moment. Bravo.’

”ANGIE WATTS, I PRAYED AND I WON’; ‘I bet they thought all their Christmases had come at once when Anita Dobson agreed to come back and do that cameo!’; ‘That Sharon and ghost Angie scene was perfect’.

‘Angie Watts back from the dead! I am shaking’; ‘I love how Angie hasn’t aged a day with that iconic wig plonked back on her head. I love Ghostenders!’

‘Angie Watts showing up is not what I expected from tonight but what a gift they gave us’; ‘ANGIE WATTS??? HELL YEAH WHAT A GREAT SURPRISE OH MY GOD THE GRIN I GRUN’.

‘i can’t believe we got her back, even if only for a moment. and wearing her first-ever dressed-up outfit too. after all this time, angie watts came home!!!’; ‘I’ve got tears the ghost of Angie Watts returns to tell Sharon to keep fighting!’

‘Angie Watts on the #EastEnders end credits for the first time since 1989 – and among some 90’s legends. What an actual goosebump-inducing moment.’; ‘#eastenders tv moment of the year’.

And viewers watching at home were left ‘screaming’ at the shock cameo, taking to X to admit they were ‘shook to the core’ and had ‘goosebumps’ at seeing Angie again, branding it the ‘tv moment of the year’

Speaking about her return to Walford after all these years, EastEnders boss Chris Clenshaw said: ‘Angie Watts is undoubtedly one of EastEnders most formidable and iconic landlady’s.

‘Since the very first episode, Anita instantly created a character that the audience adored and she not only shaped EastEnders into the show it is today, but also had a huge impact on British television.

‘Anita was of course top of our ultimate wish list when we were discussing what we would love to include in our special anniversary week, so it was the best birthday present we could ever receive when she said yes.

‘Watching Angie Watts grace the halls of The Queen Victoria, 40 years to the day she made her first appearance in Walford, is a day we will never forget as we all celebrate this show that has played such an important part in British television. Happy birthday EastEnders.’

While Anita admitted she had worked very hard to keep her return a secret, only spilling the beans to her Queen rocker husband Brian May.

She said: ‘I obviously told Brian, but I honestly haven’t told anybody! It’s been really hard because so many people that I’m really close to have said “oh are you going back?” because I’ve gone back to do the documentary, so it’s been so hard not to say anything.

‘But, I’ve been a really good girl and I’ve kept my little mouth shut because I didn’t want there to be any spoilers!’

EastEnders boss Chris Clenshaw said: ‘Anita was top of our ultimate wish list when we were discussing what we would love to include, so it was the best birthday present we could ever receive when she said yes’ (Leslie Grantham, Anita and Letitia pictured on soap in 1984)

While Anita admitted she had worked very hard to keep her return a secret, only spilling the beans to her Queen rocker husband Brian May (pictured together last month)

While she gushed about filming again with Letitia, comparing it to ‘stepping back into warm water’ and admitted their reunion was what convinced her to return.

She said: ‘It was absolutely lovely. That’s what clinched it for me. When they initially asked if I would come back when I was filming for the documentary, I wasn’t really thinking of the whole picture at first, and then when they said Letitia had said that she’d like me to do it with her, I thought “oh my god, I can’t say no to seeing my baby again.”

‘It was very emotional. Incredibly emotional in a lovely, happy way. Working together again was seamless.

‘We didn’t really think about it, or talk about it, or even rehearse it that much because we just did it. It was lovely. She’s a gorgeous human being and a lovely little actress.’

Anita bid goodbye to Walford in 1988, with her memorable exit being watched by 30 million viewers, with the now-classic scene of her husband Dirty Den (played by Leslie Grantham) serving her with divorce papers on Christmas Day.

Anita previously shut down rumours that she would return to Walford, admitting she thought she was ‘too old’ to do so back in 2022.

I didn’t realise the impact that we would have on the public and to this day I’m thrilled. I love the fact that everybody took the Watts to their hearts,’ she said on Lorraine.

‘I don’t think I could [go back] at my old age, I’m too old now! Everybody nearly has gone!’

Despite playing one of the most famous EastEnders characters, Anita recently admitted that she doesn’t watch the BBC soap.

While she gushed about filming again with Letitia, comparing it to ‘stepping back into warm water’ and admitted their reunion was what convinced her to return (pictured together at Soap Awards in 2022)

Anita bid goodbye to Walford in 1988, with her memorable exit being watched by 30 million viewers, with the now-classic scene of her husband Dirty Den serving her with divorce papers on Christmas Day (pictured as Angie with Leslie Grantham as Den in 1985)

Speaking in December, the star admitted she struggles to keep up with the number of episodes per week, and has only seen ‘bits and pieces’.

She told The Mirror: ‘I tend to always miss it. But I do try to catch up with stuff now and again.

‘But it’s hard with that because it turns over so quickly. You’d have to be constantly catching up. So no, I have watched bits and pieces.’

‘I don’t really watch television very much at all, I watch things like a series because then you can get your teeth into it, and you can watch it when you want to rather than having to keep playing catch up’.

February 19, 2025
Anita Dobson drops major health update about husband Brian May – following The Queen icon’s dreadful stroke

Anita Dobson has dropped a major health update about her famous husband Brian May suffered a stroke in September and was left unable to use his arm.

The EastEnders alum, 75, and the legendary guitarist, 77, have been happily married since 2000.

And now the actress has reassured fans saying Brian is currently ‘stable’, while also revealing he felt well enough to take over a trip to Lapland over the Christmas festivities.

‘The start of the year has been up and down. We both had the flu but we took the kids to Lapland. 15 of them,’ Anita told The Sun.

‘Brian is stable now. Brian has never been happier since we moved.

‘For me it’s been a curveball as I’m a London girl born and bred so going to the countryside to a house that needs a lot of work was a bit of a shock,’ she added.

Anita Dobson has dropped a major health update about her famous husband Brian May suffered a stroke in September and was left unable to use his arm (pictured this week)

The has reassured fans saying Brian (pictured) is currently ‘stable’, while also revealing he felt well enough to take over a trip to Lapland over the Christmas festivities, The Sun reports (pictured in August 2023 on This Morning)

‘To see what it has done to Brian…he loves it. He loves the birds and the animals. He feeds all the birds and the badgers, foxes and pheasants.’

Spilling the beans on the couple’s upcoming plans as Brian continues to recover – Anita added they are keen to see some pals up in Switzerland while she also has another series of Doctor Who coming out.

Despite the exciting plans, the beloved actress added for the meantime they are ‘just chilling’ and doesn’t mind spending more time at home.

‘It makes you realise that at any minute it could be you,’ she reflected wisely, explaining they are taking it ‘each day as it comes’.

The Queen legend Brian previously revealed he had been rushed to hospital following the medical emergency in a video shared to his personal website.

But later on in December of last year, Anita once again reassured fans that the legendary guitarist’s condition improved and that he was back to playing piano and guitar.

Speaking to The Mirror at the TRIC Christmas Lunch at the time, the EastEnders actress said: ‘He’s much better now, he’s stabilised now, which is brilliant.

‘I just hope we don’t have any more reoccurrences. He’s got the use of that arm, which was a bit of a challenge, back now.

The EastEnders alum, 75, and the legendary guitarist, 77, have been happily married since 2000 (pictured at Buckingham Palace last year)

Speaking on moving to the countryside and Brian’s rehab progress, she said: ‘He loves it. He loves the birds and the animals. He feeds all the birds and the badgers, foxes and pheasants’ (pictured in December 2024)

‘So, yeah, he’s good to go now. He’s playing the piano quite a lot in the house. He likes a lot of Beethoven. I love it – the piano in the house is really, just very relaxing.’

Anita explained that the musician had waited to try playing any instruments, to allow himself time to get better.

She explained: ‘He didn’t actually try until after he’d recovered quite a bit. And then he very slowly started to pick up an acoustic guitar and gradually just exercise the muscles.

‘And it very quickly came back. He’s just retraining the messages from your brain to that arm, that it’s actually okay to do what it used to do. It was scary.’

She then gushed: ‘And also being a genius for someone like that. His brain’s overloaded, that’s what it is. He’s too clever for his own good.’

Brian announced his stroke in a video, looking animated despite the ‘scary’ episode, and said he can still play guitar following what he called his ‘little health hiccup.

At the time, he asked fans not to ‘clutter up’ his inbox with good wishes, adding that he doesn’t want sympathy.

The guitarist was recovering from a ripped muscle and trapped nerve as a result of a gardening injury, when he suffered a heart attack in May 2020.

The Queen legend Brian previously revealed he had been rushed to hospital following the medical emergency in a video shared to his personal website

The music icon announced his stroke in a video, looking animated despite the ‘scary’ episode, and said he could still play guitar following what he called his ‘little health hiccup’

In the video, he said: ‘I’m here to bring you some good news – the good news is that I can play guitar after the events of the last few days,’ he said, twiddling his fingers for emphasis.

‘I say this because it was in some doubt because that little health hiccup that I mentioned happened about a week ago and what they called it was a minor stroke.’

The We Will Rock You writer revealed the incident left him temporarily unable to use his left arm and he had a ‘very exciting’ emergency ambulance journey to Frimley Hospital in Surrey, while praising the medical staff for giving him the ‘most fantastic care.’

‘All of a sudden, out of the blue, I didn’t have any control over this arm, so it was a little scary, I have to say,’ he continued.

‘I didn’t want to say anything at the time because I didn’t want anything surrounding, you know. I really don’t want sympathy. Please don’t do that because it’ll clutter up my inbox and I hate that.’

But the animal rights activist, who has campaigned against the culling of badgers to prevent the spread of bovine tuberculosis, said he is currently ‘grounded’ as a result.

‘The good news is I’m okay. Just doing what I’m told, which is basically nothing. I’m grounded.

‘I’m not allowed to go out – well, I’m not allowed to drive, not allowed to get on a plane, not allowed to raise the heart rate too high… but I’m good.’

Anita previously opened up about his stroke during an appearance on Loose Women in October, where she admitted it had been a ‘big wake up call for us both’ (pictured)

Anita, who has been engaged four times before marrying Brian, tied the knot in a small register office ceremony in Richmond upon Thames in 2000 (pictured around 1985)

Brian is the guitarist in legendary rock band Queen (pictured: John Deacon, Freddie Mercury, Brian and Roger Taylor Queen in 1970)

The rocker – who also has a PhD in astrophysics after abandoning his studies to pursue a career in music – had been seen in public just days before the scare, appearing on ITV’s This Morning on August 23 of last year to promote his BBC documentary on badger tuberculosis.

Anita, who played Angie Watts on EastEnders, has been at Brian’s side throughout his setbacks.

She previously opened up about his stroke during an appearance on Loose Women in October, where she admitted it had been a ‘big wake up call for us both’.

After the panel asked her how Brian was doing, Anita let out a sigh and responded: ‘I’m very happy to say, sitting here now, he’s stable and he’s got through it.’

The audience broke into applause at the positive news, before panellist Kay Adams added: ‘It’s a big shock though isn’t it?’

Anita admitted: ‘It was… yeah, a bolt from the blue and a big wake up call for us both because you suddenly think, you charge through life don’t you, wanting to do the things you can do, failing and succeeding sometimes.

‘You just don’t think about that inevitable moment when you’re going to have to slow down and this really did make us both, particularly Brian, and me too, think okay, you’re not getting any younger.’

She continued: ‘At some point you are going to have to face the prospect that you can’t do the things you used to do, so you will have to slow down and start making compromises.

‘It has been quite a shock in a way, not a massive shock because thank God he’s alright, still iconic.’

Anita met Brian shortly after she began in EastEnders at a film preview, when Brian was still married to his first wife, Chrissie, with whom he had three young children.

She recalled: ‘He invited me to see Queen play at Wembley, with some friends. Meeting my husband opened a door to a world I’d hitherto only dreamed of.

‘Here was a man who was a god globally. If he asked you to do a record [Brian produced her 1988 album, Talking Of Love], a Learjet appeared to fly you to Vienna.’ Wasn’t she troubled he was married? ‘I didn’t know,’ she previously told the Daily Mail.

‘I was heart-wrenched when he told me. We had a terrible row. I was insulted. I thought: ‘How dare you go out with me if you’re married?’ So we just kept a certain distance until we could find a place in life where we could be together. But it was hard, really hard.

‘Everybody gets hurt, and, if there are kids, it’s not good, but if people fall in love there’s nothing you can do about it. Even if you separate, the ache is still there. It stops you moving on because it’s unresolved.

‘We went through hell, but I believe, it was true love. The dust’s settled and I have good relationships with his children and ex-wife.’

January 18, 2025
EastEnders legend Anita Dobson, 75, reveals why she no longer watches the BBC soap – 36-years after leaving iconic role of Angie Watts

EastEnders legend Anita Dobson has revealed why she no longer watches the BBC soap, 36-years after leaving the role of the Queen Vic’s first landlady.

The actress, 75, played Angie Watts from the show’s very first episode in 1985 before bowing out three-years later.

Her memorable stint saw 30M viewers watch the now classic scene when husband Dirty Den (Leslie Grantham) served her with divorce papers on Christmas Day.

However Anita has now admitted that she and Queen drummer husband Brian May, 77, no longer watches her former co-stars – including onscreen daughter Leticia Dean who plays Sharon – as they struggle to keep up with the number of EastEnders episodes per week.

She told The Mirror: ‘I tend to always miss it. But I do try to catch up with stuff now and again. But it’s hard with that because it turns over so quickly. You’d have to be constantly catching up. So no, I have watched bits and pieces.’

‘I don’t really watch television very much at all, I watch things like a series because then you can get your teeth into it, and you can watch it when you want to rather than having to keep playing catch up’.

EastEnders legend Anita Dobson, 75, has revealed why she no longer watches the BBC soap, 36-years after leaving the role of the Queen Vic’s first landlady

The actress played Angie Watts from the show’s very first episode in 1985 before bowing out three-years later (pictured on the show with co-star Leslie Grantham in 1985)

It comes after Anita shared a health update on her husband Brian, after he suffered a stroke in September and was left unable to use his arm.

The Queen star revealed he had been rushed to hospital following the medical emergency in a video shared to his personal website.

But his Anita has reassured fans that the legendary guitarist’s condition has ‘stabilised’ and he’s back to playing piano and guitar.

Speaking to The Mirror at the TRIC Christmas Lunch earlier this month she said he was now doing ‘much better’ and had ‘stabilized’.

Brian announced his stroke in a video, looking animated despite the ‘scary’ episode, and said he can still play guitar following what he called his ‘little health hiccup’.

At the time, he asked fans not to ‘clutter up’ his inbox with good wishes, adding that the doesn’t want sympathy.

The guitarist was recovering from a ripped muscle and trapped nerve as a result of a gardening injury, when he suffered a heart attack in May 2020.

In the video, he said: ‘I’m here to bring you some good news – the good news is that I can play guitar after the events of the last few days,’ he said, twiddling his fingers for emphasis.

Her memorable stint saw 30M viewers watch the now classic scene when husband Dirty Den (Leslie Grantham) served her with divorce papers on Christmas Day (pictured)

Anita admitted that she no longer watches her former co-stars – including onscreen daughter Leticia Dean(pictured) – as they struggle to keep up with the number of episodes per week

She said: ‘I tend to always miss it. But I do try to catch up with stuff now and again. But it’s hard with that because it turns over so quickly.

‘I say this because it was in some doubt because that little health hiccup that I mentioned happened about a week ago and what they called it was a minor stroke.’

The We Will Rock You writer revealed the incident left him temporarily unable to use his left arm and he had a ‘very exciting’ emergency ambulance journey to Frimley Hospital in Surrey, while praising the medical staff for giving him the ‘most fantastic care.’

‘All of a sudden, out of the blue, I didn’t have any control over this arm, so it was a little scary, I have to say,’ he continued.

‘I didn’t want to say anything at the time because I didn’t want anything surrounding, you know. I really don’t want sympathy. Please don’t do that because it’ll clutter up my inbox and I hate that.’

But the animal rights activist, who has campaigned against the culling of badgers to prevent the spread of bovine tuberculosis, said he is currently ‘grounded’ as a result.

‘The good news is I’m okay. Just doing what I’m told, which is basically nothing. I’m grounded.

‘I’m not allowed to go out – well, I’m not allowed to drive, not allowed to get on a plane, not allowed to raise the heart rate too high… but I’m good.’

The rocker – who also has a PhD in astrophysics after abandoning his studies to pursue a career in music – had been seen in public just days before the scare, appearing on ITV’s This Morning on August 23 to promote his BBC documentary on badger tuberculosis.

It comes after Anita shared a health update on her husband Brian , after he suffered a stroke in September and was left unable to use his arm

Brian announced his stroke in a video, looking animated despite the ‘scary’ episode, and said he can still play guitar following what he called his ‘little health hiccup.

Anita has been at Brian’s side throughout his setbacks and previously opened up about his stroke during an appearance on Loose Women in October, where she admitted it had been a ‘big wake up call for us both’.

After the panel asked her how Brian was doing, Anita let out a sigh and responded: ‘I’m very happy to say, sitting here now, he’s stable and he’s got through it.’

The audience broke into applause at the positive news, before panellist Kay Adams added: ‘It’s a big shock though isn’t it?’

Anita admitted: ‘It was… yeah, a bolt from the blue and a big wake up call for us both because you suddenly think, you charge through life don’t you, wanting to do the things you can do, failing and succeeding sometimes.

‘You just don’t think about that inevitable moment when you’re going to have to slow down and this really did make us both, particularly Brian, and me too, think okay, you’re not getting any younger.’

She continued: ‘At some point you are going to have to face the prospect that you can’t do the things you used to do, so you will have to slow down and start making compromises.

‘It has been quite a shock in a way, not a massive shock because thank God he’s alright, still iconic.’

December 23, 2024
Robert Lindsay struggles to recognise Hollywood friends due to Botox

Robert Lindsay has revealed he struggles to recognise his Hollywood friends because of the amount of Botox they’ve had.

Starring in the new Channel 4 drama series Generation Z alongside Sue Johnston, 80, and Anita Dobson, 75, the trio insisted that they have never been tempted to reverse the clock with a little plastic surgery.

Speaking to this week’s Radio Times, Lindsay said: ‘I’ve just come back from LA. I worked there in the 80s, and I was catching up with some very old friends and I didn’t recognise any of them. I’m serious. I was completely shocked.’

Agreeing, Sue Johnston said: ‘I think it’s just sad, don’t you?

‘I’m very proud of the three of us. We’ve gone with the flow, got our wrinkles and let me tell you we are growing old quite disgracefully.’

Robert Lindsay has revealed he struggles to recognise his Hollywood friends because of the amount of Botox they’ve had (pictured in 2022)

‘I was talking to an agent yesterday who gets lots of requests from casting directors saying they don’t want anybody who’s had any work done,’ said Dobson.

‘If they were playing creatures like Sue and I are playing they’d say, “Oh, no, I’ve just had Botox all over and my chin done and my nose done and I don’t really want to cover it up”.’

The new series is about a quiet, sleepy town that is soon overran by the apocalypse when an army convoy overturns outside a care home causing a chemical leak with some very deadly consequences.

A group of teenagers are caught up in the virus when one of the gang’s grandmothers becomes infected and attacks her.

Mr Lindsay is father to sons Samuel, 24, and James, 21, who he shares with wife Rosemarie Ford, a famous presenter and dancer.

He also shares his daughter Sydney, 36, with actress Diane Weston, who has become an actress herself.

The My Family actor, who plays the character Morgan, said he took the gig because his kids liked the script.

‘Yeah, although it was very mysterious offer,’ he said.

Speaking to this week’s Radio Times , Lindsay said: ‘I’ve just come back from LA and I was catching up with some very old friends and I didn’t recognise any of them. I’m serious’ (pictured in 2020)

He is starring in the new Channel 4 drama series Generation Z alongside Sue Johnston, 80, and Anita Dobson , 75, and the trio insisted that they have never been tempted to reverse the clock with a little plastic surgery

He continued: ‘My kids responded to the script far better than I did initially, because they suffered very badly during Covid, during their A levels and going to university. It was really tough on them.

‘I had a body part – a torso with bits missing and a cut through the stomach – made for a certain sequence.

‘After the shoot, the producers rang me and asked if I wanted it, or else they were going to throw it away. I said, “Why not?”

They delivered it in a box, which my wife and my young son opened, probably thinking it was a bottle of champagne or something. I heard the scream from them downstairs.’

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Robert Lindsay says he struggles to recognise his Hollywood friends due to the amount of Botox they’ve had

October 22, 2024
Brian May’s Incredible Wife Anita Dobson: The Supportive Force Behind the Queen Guitarist
Brian May’s wife of 23 years Anita Dobson has been a constant support at his side and nursed him at his bedside after he struggled with his health.

Anita, 75, who played Angie Watts on EastEnders, has been at Brian side throughout his setbacks and even saved his life when she acted promptly after he suffered a heart attack in 2020.

On Wednesday, the shaken Queen guitarist, 77, announced he had suffered a stroke and was taken to Frimley Hospital in an ambulance a week ago following the medical emergency.

It is his second health scare in four years, after he endured a heart attack for which he underwent surgery.

He said: ‘That little health hiccup that I mentioned happened about a week ago and what they called it was a minor stroke.

Brian May ‘s wife of 23 years Anita Dobson has been a constant support at his side and nursed him at his bedside after he struggled with his health (pictured at Buckingham Palace last year)

The actress met Brian shortly after she began in EastEnders at a film preview and he invited her to see Queen play at Wembley (pictured around 1985)

The We Will Rock You writer revealed the incident left him temporarily unable to use his left arm.

‘All of a sudden, out of the blue, I didn’t have any control over this arm, so it was a little scary, I have to say.

‘The good news is I’m okay. Just doing what I’m told, which is basically nothing. I’m grounded.

‘I’m not allowed to go out – well, I’m not allowed to drive, not allowed to get on a plane, not allowed to raise the heart rate too high… but I’m good.’

Brian said he is able to play the guitar after being unable to use his hand.

Anita met Brian shortly after she began in EastEnders at a film preview, when Brian was still married to his first wife, Chrissie, with whom he had three young children.

‘He invited me to see Queen play at Wembley, with some friends. Meeting my husband opened a door to a world I’d hitherto only dreamed of. Here was a man who was a god globally. If he asked you to do a record [Brian produced her 1988 album, Talking Of Love], a Learjet appeared to fly you to Vienna.’ Wasn’t she troubled he was married? ‘I didn’t know,’ she previously told the Daily Mail.

Sir Brian May has revealed he suffered a stroke last week that left him unable to use his left arm

Once Anita had left EastEnders, the makers begged her to return twice, but she refused (pictured as Angie Watts)

In 2020, Anita saved her husband’s life after he suffered a heart attack. The actress revealed she initially thought Brian had simply ‘overdone it’ after too much exercise

‘I was heart-wrenched when he told me. We had a terrible row. I was insulted. I thought: “How dare you go out with me if you’re married?” So we just kept a certain distance until we could find a place in life where we could be together. But it was hard, really hard.

‘Everybody gets hurt, and, if there are kids, it’s not good, but if people fall in love there’s nothing you can do about it. Even if you separate, the ache is still there. It stops you moving on because it’s unresolved.

‘We went through hell, but I believe, it was true love. The dust’s settled and I have good relationships with his children and ex-wife.’

In May 1999, it emerged Brian had an affair.

Anita recalled: ‘Nobody’s perfect. We’ve all done things that we’re not proud of but, unfortunately, that became public. I didn’t think I’d ever come back from it. I thought: “That’s it. Over.”

But when I walked away, I thought, “You obviously love this man, and he loves you. You’ve spent your life running away from commitment. Maybe it’s time you stood and figured out why.

‘I just thought, “We’ve gone through all the c**p. It’s time we had the good stuff.” So I said, “Brian, I think I’m ready to get married.”

Brian was still married to his first wife, Chrissie, with whom he had three young children when he met Anita (pictured with Chrissie Mullen May at the British Video Awards in 1986)

Brian is the guitarist in legendary rock band Queen (pictured: John Deacon, Freddie Mercury, Brian and Roger Taylor Queen in 1970)

Anita as EastEnders’ Angie with Dirty Den. She played the role from 1985 to 1988

Anita, who has been engaged four times before marrying Brian, tied the knot in a small register office ceremony in Richmond upon Thames in 2000.

They honeymooned in Venice, where they were blissfully happy and where they return each year.

She said: ‘I wouldn’t be married today if it wasn’t for that affair. I needed to grow up and deal with the fact I was also responsible for our relationship.’ it.

Once Anita had left EastEnders, the makers begged her to return twice, but she refused.

Instead, she took a range of TV, film and theatre roles, receiving a Best Actress nomination for a Laurence Olivier Award in 2003 for Frozen at the National Theatre.

In 2020, Anita saved her husband’s life after he suffered a heart attack.

The actress revealed she initially thought Brian had simply ‘overdone it’ after too much exercise.

Anita was later shocked to learn the real extent of the Queen rocker’s ill health, when he was hospitalised and found to be ‘very near death’.

Other – just as common – tell-tale signs of a looming stroke, often fall under the radar. These include sudden numbness on one side of the body, sudden vertigo and difficulty swallowing

Stroke symptoms are commonly remembered under this four-letter acronym, FAST.

Speaking to The Daily Mail about Brian’s heart attack, Anita recalled: ‘He said, ‘Babe, I think I’m having a heart attack’, I said ‘No, you’ve been exercising and you’ve overdone it’.’

Brian was quick to emphasised that things were more serious than she thought, as she added: ‘He replied, ‘No, this is different’.’

The same year, Brian spoke about the terrifying health scare.

The musician was recovering from a ripped muscle and trapped nerve as a result of a gardening injury, when he suffered a heart attack amid his recovery.

He said on BBC Morning Live: ‘She did save my life. I had this whole cluster of things go wrong. It was a good job it was lockdown in a way but I was incapacitated with the heart attack, complications from the drugs, then I had sciatica so badly. I couldn’t even crawl.

‘So when you get that bad, you’re just grateful to be alive at the end of it and its thanks to Anita that I am, she’s been there the whole way through it

‘She’s taken care of me and nursed me and whatever.’

Brian said he was ‘grateful to be alive’ after having ‘a catalogue of disasters’ including the heart attack and a near-fatal allergic reaction to medication in the same year.

Brian released an Instagram video in which he explained the shocking series of events that lead to his hospitalisation.

The Queen guitarist was recovering from a ripped muscle and trapped nerve as a result of a gardening injury, when he suffered a heart attack in 2020

Sir Brian was able to see the lighter side of the ordeal – captioning a video on the topic ‘Sheer Heart Attack after one of Queen’s best-known albums

He said: ‘I told you I had a ripped muscle and that was the way I was diagnosed and we thought it was like a bizarre gardening accident… I kind of forgot anything to do with the bum people find amusing… but anyway, it turned out to be not really the case.’

He went on to reveal that after being diagnosed with a rip in his gluteus maximus, he was confused to find that a week later he was still in pain.

He explained: ‘I mean real agony. I wanted to jump at some points. I could not believe the pain. And people are saying ‘that’s not like a ripped muscle’, so eventually I had another MRI.’

‘But the rest of the story is a little more bizarre. I was shocked, I thought I was a healthy guy. Everyone says I’ve got a great blood pressure and I keep fit, I bike, good diet.

‘I had – in the middle of the whole saga of the painful backside – I had a small heart attack. I say small, it’s not something that did me any harm. It was about 40 minutes of pain in the chest and tightness. It’s that feeling in the arms and sweating.

‘And you kind of know, you’ve heard things and you think ‘this is a heart attack’. To cut a long story short, my wonderful doctor drove me to the hospital himself and I had an angiogram [an X-ray used to examine blood vessels.]’

Brian went on to reveal that doctors discovered he had three arteries congested and he was in danger of blocking the supply of blood to his heart.

Doctors suggested that he undergo open heart surgery, but Brian opted for the alternative which was to have three stents put inside his heart.
HOW CAN F.A.S.T SAVE YOU DURING A STROKE?

The main symptoms of stroke can be remembered with the word F.A.S.T.

This will help you more quickly identify someone having a stroke.

Face: the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have dropped.

Arms: the person with suspected stroke may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm.

Speech: their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake.

Time: it’s time to dial 999 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms.

Source: NHS
September 4, 2024
Anita Dobson Celebrates 75th Birthday at Scott’s with Close Friends Brian May, Carol Vorderman, and Duncan Bannatyne

Anita Dobson was surrounded by her loved ones as she celebrated her 75th birthday with a lavish dinner at Scott’s restaurant in London on Monday evening.

The EastEnders star was joined by her rocker husband Brian May as they dined with friends including Carol Vorderman, Duncan Bannatyne and his wife Nigora.

The Queen star, 76, wrapped his arm around his wife as they left the famous seafood restaurant, which has branches in Mayfair and Richmond.

Anita looked nothing short of sensational during the evening, wearing a leopard print fur coat over her outfit with a blue scarf.

She wore her silver locks swept up into a chic up do and opted for a full face of glamorous make-up and pearl earrings to complete her look.

Anita Dobson was surrounded by her loved ones as she celebrated her 75th birthday with a lavish dinner at Scott’s restaurant in London on Monday evening

Also in attendance was former Dragon’s Den star Duncan, 75, who was accompanied by his glamorous wife Nigora, 44

The EastEnders star was joined by her rocker husband Brian May as they dined with friends including Carol Vorderman , Duncan Bannatyne and his wife Nigora

Anita boosted her petite frame with a pair of classic black court shoes and carried her essentials in a red silk pattern clutch.

Meanwhile, Brian opted for a typically daring look as he wore a flame-print velvet jacket with a white shirt and trousers.

The couple were joined by TV personality Carol, 63, who opted to keep warm in a padded black jacket, which she wore over her black dress.

Also in attendance was former Dragon’s Den star Duncan, 75, who was accompanied by his glamorous wife Nigora, 44.

Nigora cut a stylish figure in a red leather jacket, which she teamed with a pair of skintight trousers and knee-high crocodile print boots.

She wore her glossy brunette locks in loose curls and sported a full face of make-up, completing her outfit with a black Dior bag.

Meanwhile, Duncan looked dapper in a blue and white striped shirt, which he wore with a navy jacket and trousers with a scarf to accessorise.

Anita has been married to Brian since 2000 after first meeting in 1986.

The couple were joined by TV personality Carol, 63, who opted to keep warm in a padded black jacket, which she wore over her black dress

Nigora cut a stylish figure in a red leather jacket, which she teamed with a pair of skintight trousers and knee-high crocodile print boots

Anita looked nothing short of sensational during the evening, wearing a leopard print fur coat over her outfit with a blue scarf.

The couple hugged goodbye to friends as they left the restaurant together

Duncan and his family were pictured leaving the event in a taxi

Carol also hopped into a car before making her way home

Brian kissed a guest on the cheek as they said their goodbyes

She wore her glossy brunette locks in loose curls and sported a full face of make-up, completing her outfit with a black Dior bag

Meanwhile, Duncan looked dapper in a blue and white striped shirt, which he wore with a navy jacket and trousers with a scarf to accessorise

Last year, Anita admitted she thinks she is ‘too old’ to go back to EastEnders.

The actress, played Angie Watts in the BBC One soap opera from its very first episode in 1985 until 1988.

But despite having fond memories of her time on the series and filming the famous scene in which Den (Lesley Grantham) served her with divorce papers in 1986, Anita said she believes that she is too old to make a comeback.

Speaking on ITV’s Lorraine in December, she told stand-in host Louise Minchin: ‘I knew when we were filming it that it was a great scene, the relationship was really good between us.

‘I didn’t realise the impact that we would have on the public and to this day I’m thrilled. I love the fact that everybody took the Watts to their hearts. I don’t think I could [go back] at my old age, I’m too old now! Everybody nearly has gone!’

More than 30 million viewers tuned in on Christmas Day 1986 to watch husband Den (Leslie Grantham) serve her with divorce papers and it remains one of the most-watched broadcasts ever, just behind the 1966 World Cup final, the funeral of Princess Diana and the 1969 documentary about the royal family.

Since her time on EastEnders, Anita has gone on to have a long career in television but has also appeared in musicals such as Wicked and Annie.

She most recently starred as Mrs Flood in the Christmas special of Doctor Who and claimed that the ‘secret’ to the show’s long-running success is because it moves with the times.

Anita and Brian got into their car after celebrating with friends

Carol left the restaurant carrying a rucksack on her back

Carol leaving the restaurant after Anita’s birthday dinner

The couple piled into the back of the taxi

Duncan waved as he left the restaurant

She said: ‘I think the secret, from my point of view, is that it keeps changing.

‘The fact that it keeps coming up with different ideas, different doctors, different situations.

It is moving forward with the times and with the technology, I think that is what is keeping it going.’

But this year, Anita was unable to commit to a panto run because she was working so far into December,

This means that the couple can ‘shut the doors’ and enjoy the holiday season together for a change.

She said: ‘Usually, I’m working and doing pantomime.

‘This year, because I was working quite late up to the wire, I’m not so I’m enjoying the run up to Christmas.

‘We’ve decided, Brian and I, that we’re going to just shut the doors and just be us.’

April 30, 2024
Duncan Bannatyne, 75, and wife Nigora, 44, show their love as they leave Anita Dobson’s 75th birthday party at Scott’s in Mayfair

Duncan Bannatyne looked more than loved-up with his glamorous wife Nigora as they were seen departing Anita Dobson’s 75th birthday dinner party on Monday.

The Dragon’s Den star, 75, enjoyed a wholesome evening with Nigora at Scott’s restaurant in Mayfair, to celebrate the actress’ milestone.

Nigora, 44, cut a trendy display in tight black leggings and a stylish burgundy leather jacket, teamed with a bejewelled black bag.

Duncan looked dapper in a blue and white striped shirt and trousers, with smart brown loathers.

The couple were joined by Nigora’s 75-year-old mother Malokhat Suleymanova, who looked chic in a cream jacket.

Duncan Bannatyne, 75, looked more than loved-up with his glamorous wife Nigora, 44, as they were seen departing Anita Dobson ‘s 75th birthday dinner on Monday

The Dragon’s Den star enjoyed a wholesome evening with Nigora at Scott’s restaurant in Mayfair, to celebrate the actress’ milestone

Anita invited her nearest and dearest to her celebratory dinner as she arrived alongside her husband Brian May.

Carol Vorderman, 73, was also seen departing the luxury eatery after spending the evening dining with fellow stars.

Last month, Duncan treated Nigora and a group of friends with a lavish trip in Tulum, Mexico to celebrate her 44th birthday.

Photos show the former dental surgery receptionist looking gorgeous in a nude dress with a plunging neckline.

Nigora cosied up with her equally glam girlfriends as well as Duncan in a picturesque beach bar.

After their trip, Nigora ladled praise upon her husband as well as her ‘beautiful family and friends’ for their ‘kindness and energy’ as she shared more photos from the getaway.

‘I am thankful for my wonderful husband @duncan.bannatyne my beautiful family, friends ….the kindness, the energy and the endless love and support from you through good and bad. I’m thankful I’m blessed…’ she wrote.

‘To connect, lean, grow, be inspired to do well and able to share our lives together…there’s not enough words to express my appreciation and gratitude to you all!’

Nigora cut a trendy display in tight black leggings and a stylish burgundy leather jacket, teamed with a bejewelled black bag

The couple were joined by Nigora’s 75-year-old mother Malokhat Suleymanova (left), who looked chic in a cream jacket

Duncan looked dapper in a blue and white striped shirt and trousers, with smart brown loathers

The businessman sweetly waved to photographers as they headed home in a taxi

Nigora still looked incredibly glam as she departed the bash with her mother

Last month, Duncan treated Nigora and a group of friends with a lavish trip in Tulum, Mexico to celebrate her 44th birthday

Nigora is Duncan’s third wife after previously tying the knot with Gail Brodie and Joanne McCue, in 1987 and 2006 respectively – The couple married in Portugal in 2017

Nigora is Duncan’s third wife after previously tying the knot with Gail Brodie and Joanne McCue, in 1987 and 2006 respectively.

Thrice-wed Duncan has four children with Gail and two with Joanna. Uzbekistan-born Nigora is also a parent to daughter Gabrielle from a former relationship.

Duncan proposed to Nigora in 2016 with a £40k ring in Monte Carlo after they first started dating in 2015 when Duncan met her after visiting the dental surgery on London’s Harley Street where she was working in 2014.

The couple married in Portugal in 2017 before jetting off to Croatia to enjoy their honeymoon.

Duncan and Nigora previously spoke to OK! Magazine about the moment they first met.

The business mogul insisted she was on his mind from the minute he saw her at the dental surgery.

He said: ‘I spotted her in there one day while getting some crowns done. Just as I was building up the courage to speak to her, the buzzer went for my appointment.

‘When I went home I couldn’t stop thinking about her, I felt obsessed! I felt in love with her.’

April 30, 2024
Ncuti Gatwa Journeys Through Time and Space in New Doctor Who Teaser Trailer, Visiting Prehistoric Times, Regency Britain, and the 1960s

Doctor Who fans don’t have long to wait until the launch of series 15.

And ahead of it’s release on May 11, Disney+ have unveiled a brand new teaser trailer which sees Ncuti Gatwa travel through time and space.

The Rwandan-Scottish actor, 31, is seen visiting prehistoric times, Regency Britain, the 1960s and war-torn future worlds.

Joined by his companion Ruby Sunday, played by Millie Gibson, fans were treated to a glimpse of the duo’s adventures.

Guest stars include a mysterious villian played by Jinkx Monsoon, Anita Dobson as Mrs Flood and Indira Varma as The Duchess.

Ahead of the new series of Doctor Who on May 11, Disney+ have unveiled a brand new teaser trailer which sees Ncuti Gatwa travel through time and space

The Rwandan-Scottish actor, 31, is seen visiting prehistoric times, Regency Britain, the 1960s and war-torn future worlds

Revealing the trailer Russell T Davies wrote: ‘At last, it’s my great delight to unleash a whole new season of the Doctor and Ruby’s adventures together.

‘Monsters! Chases! Villains! Mysteries! And a terrifying secret that’s been spanning time and space for decades. Don’t miss a second!’

The new series of Doctor Who is in partnership with Disney+, a decision that has incensed fans.

It is preceded by four December 2023 specials, one of which saw the Fifteenth Doctor meet The Beatles.

New Doctor Ncuti was announced as the fifteenth Doctor in May 2022, and made his debut on 9 December in the third special episode.

It was the third and final episode of the 60th anniversary celebration, and it saw The fourteenth Doctor (David Tennant) ‘bi-regenerate’ into the Fifteenth Doctor.

This meant that, for the the first time, two incarnations of the Doctor co-existed.

The Fourteenth Doctor stayed on Earth with his companion Donna Noble (Catherine Tate) and the Fifteenth began roaming the universe with his companion Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson).

Joined by his companion Ruby Sunday, played by Millie Gibson, fans were treated to a glimpse of the duo’s adventures

Revealing the trailer Russell T Davies wrote: ‘At last, it’s my great delight to unleash a whole new season of the Doctor and Ruby’s adventures together’

He added: ‘Monsters! Chases! Villains! Mysteries! And a terrifying secret that’s been spanning time and space for decades. Don’t miss a second!’

Steven Moffat OBE, ex-showrunner of Doctor Who, has returned to the sci-fi series as a writer after a seven-year absence.

The screenwriter, 62, has written an episode of the upcoming fifteenth series, Ncuti’s second as the Doctor, which will air in 2025.

He was involved in the show from its 2005 revival under Russell T Davies till series 10, receiving an OBE for his services to drama for his efforts.

Of his return to the ‘Whoniverse’, Steven said: ‘Apologies to everyone I’ve very slightly misled – I am in fact writing an episode of the series of Doctor Who. Exactly like I said I never would. What can I tell you?

‘There was begging, there was pleading but finally Russell agreed to let me have another go – so long as I got out of his garden. Working with old friends and a brand new Doctor I couldn’t be happier.

‘Sorry I was a bit reticent on the subject for so long. It was all part of an elaborate plan that would have delighted millions but at the last minute I forgot what it was.’

Directing the Doctor’s new adventures is BAFTA, Emmy, and Golden Globe nominee Julie-Anne Robinson.

She has previously directed blockbuster TV shows including Bridgerton, Orange is the New Black and Scandal.

Steven Moffat OBE, ex-showrunner of Doctor Who, has returned to the sci-fi series as a writer after a seven-year absence

He has written an episode of the upcoming fifteenth series, Ncuti’s first foray as the fifteenth incarnation of the Doctor

Julie said: “It was a tremendous honour to direct episodes of ‘Doctor Who’ for the BBC and Disney+.

‘This beloved franchise is 60 years old and still going strong. It is part of our collective memory as Brits.

‘I’ve always admired Russell T Davies, and Ncuti Gatwa is an unbelievably talented actor who has stepped into the role of the Fifteenth Doctor effortlessly, alongside the equally talented Millie Gibson (who plays his companion Ruby Sunday.)

‘Steven Moffatt gave me an intense challenge as a director. I asked him for a keyword to describe the overall tone of the episode he said: Hitchcock.

‘I can’t wait to see what everyone thinks. I’m grateful to Bad Wolf, the BBC and Disney+. It was an incredible experience.’

March 23, 2024
Strictly Come Dancing Honors the Memory of Beloved Pro Dancer Robin Windsor Following His Unexpected Passing at 44

Strictly Come Dancing paid tribute to professional dancer Robin Windsor aged 44 on Tuesday, hours after the news of his sad death was revealed.

The cause of death has not been confirmed.

Sharing a picture of Robin, the post read: The whole Strictly family are deeply saddened to hear the news about out dear friend Robin Windsor.

‘He was not only an exceptionally talented dancer &choreographer but also a caring, considerate and kind person both on and off the dancefloor.

‘Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this extremely difficult time.’

Strictly Come Dancing took to Instagram on Tuesday to pay tribute to ‘caring, considerate and kind’ pro dancer Robin Windsor following his shock death aged 44

A host of stars took to the comments section to express their sadness, including the likes of Dr Ranj, Denise Van Outen and Oti and Motsi Mabuse

They also captioned the post: ‘Robin Windsor was an exceptional dancer, our thoughts are with his friends and family at this extremely difficult time’

A host of stars took to the comments section to express their sadness, including the likes of Dr Ranj, Denise Van Outen and Oti and Motsi Mabuse.

In a separate post, show judge Craig Revel Horwood took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to tell his followers just how much he was loved at the BBC One show.

He penned: ‘I have just heard the tragic news my dear friend ‘Bobby’ Robin Windsor has passed.

‘He was one of the kindest, gentle, honest, funny and caring people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and working with. He will be forever missed.

‘My heart goes out to all his family & friends. RIP darling man, you were truly loved x’.

Professional Latin and Ballroom dancer Robin was best known for his appearances on BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing for five years between 2010 and 2015.

He partnered with model Patsy Kensit, EastEnders legend Anita Dobson, Loose Woman Lisa Riley and Dragon’s Den star Deborah Meaden during his stint at the show. He also performed with This Morning host Alison Hammond in the 2015 Christmas Special.

Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood also shared a heartfelt tribute, writing: ‘He was one of the kindest, gentle, honest, funny and caring people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing’

Lisa Riley – who was partnered with Windsor when she competed on Strictly in 2012 – shared a collage of pictures with the late dancer as she paid tribute to her ‘bestie’

James Jordan also paid tribute to the late dancer (pictured on the Strictly Live Tour in 2013)

Karen Hauer, 41, shared a series of snaps of the dancer on Instagram, writing: ‘I’m Heartbroken… Robin, you Beautiful human being . I can’t believe it. RIP’

His 2012 Strictly partner Lisa Riley, 47, was also among those paying tribute, sharing a collage of pictures with the late dancer as she reflected on the loss of her ‘bestie’.

She wrote: ‘My Bestie, My Robin, My Angel…….now our forever Angel, who is loved, will always be loved, forever in my heart……my very broken heart, I love you, shine your beautiful, electric energy from heaven. SHINE IN PEACE.’

Fellow professional dancer and choreographer, James Jordan, paid tribute to his ‘old friend’ as he revealed that he was adored by all who met him.

The 45-year-old shared: ‘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 #RobinWindsor #legend.’

Also pouring her heart out on social media, Venezuelan dancer, Karen Hauer, 41, shared a series of snaps of the dancer stating she ‘cannot believe it’.

She wrote: ‘I’m Heartbroken… Robin, you Beautiful human being . I can’t believe it. RIP.’

Alongside a selfie with the late dancer, Amy Dowden, 33, shared a lovely picture of the two of them flashing a wholesome smile as they wrapped up in winter coats.

She wrote: ‘In such shock this morning to wake up to the news [broken heart emoji]. RIP @robinwindsor. Such a kind, talented soul [crying emoji].’

Former Strictly contestant Dan Walker, now 5 News host, spoke about Robin’s kind heart and revealed he had reached out to him when he competed on the 2021 show.

He penned: ‘How sad to hear about the death of Robin Windsor. Just 44 years old!

‘He sent me the kindest message when I was on Strictly and he was loved by so many on that show.’

Alongside a selfie with the late dancer, Amy Dowden, 33, expressed her shock at the news

Neil Jones revealed it was ‘always a joy’ to be around the late dancer

Graziano Di Prima was left in a state of shock at the news and shared a selfie with the star

Strictly choreographer, Janette Manrara also paid tribute to her ‘beautiful friend’

Australian dancer, Dianne Buswell shared a snap from inside rehearsals with Robin

Iconic show host, Anton Du Beke shared tribute to his late friend of 25 years

Oti Mabuse praised the dancer for being loving and creative

Tess Daly noted the dancer’s ‘infectious personality, energy and talent’

Shirley Ballas shared a heartfelt tribute to the late dancer

Strictly’s Brendan Cole also paid emotional tributes on the show as they called in to share their memories of the star.

Brendan, 47, confessed: ‘I’m a little bit in shock, his family must be going through hell.

‘When he was dancing, the excitement in him, he reminds of a puppy actually. he was very flappy and could not contain it… He was lovely, he didn’t have a bad word to say about anyone.

‘He was just a wonderful man. He was an incredible dancer, great professional to partner the celebrities and show them off at their best.

‘He was the sparkle on the floor. He would be so sadly missed. I couldn’t believe it. I found out this morning. I was devastated. Beyond words.’

And Erin Boag also expressed her devastation on Instagram as she dubbed the star a ‘true gentlemen’.

The 48-year-old penned: ‘Such sad news today. Robin you will be missed by so many. A true gentleman a great dancer and a true professional. My thoughts are with his family. RIP Robin.’

Strictly’s Brendan Cole also paid an emotional tributes on the show as he called in to share his memories of the star, (stock image)

Fellow dancer Giselle Rojas Peacock took to social media to share: ‘I was shocked to find out today we lost another Dancer and Friend Robin Jamie Windsor.

‘This one hits home as we had so many years dancing performing and touring together all over the world in Burn The Floor.

‘One of the original members and poster boy of Burn, Bobby was so loved by everyone, the sweetest human. Just like a massive teddy bear.

‘You light up the stage with such an energy and it was always a pleasure to dance with you.

‘We had so many laughs, tears, highs and lows together and even though life took us in separate directions and the lord has taken you too soon, I think all us will cherish so many memories with you in them.

‘RIP my good friend. My heart breaks today for all who loved you. And there were many.’

Strictly choreographer Patrick Helm said Robin was unaware of how much he meant to people.

He wrote: ‘I don’t even know how to find the words to this post. I will dearly miss you Robin Windsor. This one is hitting me hard and too close to home.

‘My deepest condolences go to your family and everyone who knew you! You were another one who was loved by so many but couldn’t see it himself.

‘May you finally be free and find piece. RIP Bobby.’ [sic].

Robin’s spokesperson told MailOnline: ‘It is with deep sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of our beautiful Robin.

‘Robin’s dancing started from a very young age and never stopped. He lit up any room he walked into, he was a nurturing soul always full of fun.

‘He brought so much happiness to anyone who saw him dance. Strictly Come Dancing, Burn The Floor and many other dance shows along with all the school children around the country who he gave his time.

‘Robin was a strong advocate for mental health and worked closely with the Sane Charity

‘The dance world has lost some of its sparkle today. We ask for the family’s privacy at this very difficult time.’

From the age of three, Bobby studied Latin and Ballroom and his talent and commitment to his vocation took him to the highest level of competition where he won numerous World Championships.

Bobby debuted in Strictly Come Dancing in 2010 alongside professional partner Kristina Rihanoff – a long-term partnership which saw them dance all over the world.

In 2018, Robin opened up about his struggle with depression while he featured on Strictly Come Dancing, saying: ‘We all have dark days but I was having dark weeks.

‘I would end up not getting out of bed for four or fives days at a time, as far as everyone was concerned I was “happy Robin” – expect to the people I lived with.’

Robin also experienced mental health issues when he suffered two huge setbacks, losing his job on Strictly and splitting from his fiancé.

Kristina Rihanoff and Robin Windsor during Strictly Come Dancing launch event at the BBC Studios back in 2011

Robin and Deborah Meaden on Strictly Come Dancing

Robin’s last post on Instagram which was captioned, ‘hiding in the shadows’

He said: ‘I was still on Strictly at the time it started – it was really bad. A lot of things happened at the same time, quite bad things, which set it in motion.

‘My injury, a financial situation, my engagement [to Davide] had ended and I lost my job on Strictly all at the same time so it took its toll.’

Robin was previously engaged to ex-partner Davide Cini and proposed on a romantic New York helicopter ride in 2013 before splitting years later.

He previously dated former Strictly contestant Marcus Collins.

February 20, 2024
Eamonn Holmes Pays Emotional Tribute to Robin Windsor on GB News: ‘I Danced with Him, as Did My Wife’

Eamonn Holmes became visibly emotional as he announced the news that Robin Windsor has died, while presenting GB News on Tuesday.

The Strictly Come Dancing star, who died at the age of 44, was best known for his appearances on the ITV show for fives years between 2010-2015.

Robin’s cause of death has not been revealed.

The host, 64, paid a heart-warming tribute to the late Latin and Ballroom dancer, as he revealed the shock news to viewers, alongside co-host Isabel Webster.

He said: ‘We’ve got some news just breaking, shocking news from the world of Showbiz and that is that Robin Windsor, who is a former dancer on Strictly, I new him and indeed even danced with him as have my wife, has suddenly died.’

Eamonn Holmes, 64, became visibly emotional as he announced the news that Robin Windsor has died, while presenting GB News on Tuesday – alongside Isabel Webster (L)

The Strictly Come Dancing star, who died at the age of 44, was best known for his appearances on the ITV show for fives years between 2010-2015

He added: ‘I got to dance with him and tangle with him at all places Old Trafford.

‘There was these publicity pictures taken on the pitch and overlooking the pitch, but he was there to dance for my wife for a ladies lunch, which we held for charity for the Manchester United foundation.

‘And he was one of the turns during that and very popular.’

Robin, who started dancing at the age of three and was one of the founding members of dance show Burn The Floor, ‘lit up any room he walked into’, his representatives said as they confirmed his death today.

The ‘extremely talented’ dancer spent last month entertaining holidaymakers by performing on a Fred Olsen Cruise and posted smiling selfies when the boat docked in South Africa.

But he also hinted he was dealing with ‘trauma’ and thanked his friends and family for their support in a string of posts before his death.

On January 27, Robin posed in front of a marina with Cape Town’s Table Mountain in the background with the caption: ‘This place is the distraction of all distractions!’

He looked happy as he took pictures of elephants on safari and relaxed in a lodge overlooking the stunning Leopard Mountain game reserve.

The dancer had also enjoyed a one-night stop in Mozambique and was seen relaxing on the beach and posing with a Lemur in Madagascar in the days prior.

The host, 64, paid a heart-warming tribute to the late Latin and Ballroom dancer, as he revealed the shock news to viewers

He said: ‘We’ve got some news just breaking, shocking news from the world of Showbiz and that is that Robin Windsor, who is a former dancer on Strictly, I new him and indeed even danced with him as have my wife, has suddenly died’

He added: ‘I got to dance with him and tangle with him at all places Old Trafford. He was there to dance for my wife for a ladies lunch, which we held for charity for the Manchester United foundation. ‘And he was one of the turns during that and very popular’

Robin’s cause of death has not been revealed

Robin, who started dancing at the age of three and was one of the founding members of dance show Burn The Floor, ‘lit up any room he walked into’, his representatives said as they confirmed his death today

But Robin’s last post on Instagram, which was shared to his 46,000 followers on January 28, was a more muted selfie in the near-dark with the caption: ‘Hiding in the shadows.’

Seven days earlier, the dancer had reposted a quote which said: ‘Trauma teaches you to expect and accept the bare minimum. In this new season, may you adjust your standards and learn to receive the maximum. You are worthy. You are enough. You deserve overflow.’

And on January 4, he had shared a message with his friends and followers which said: ‘Big shout out and love to everyone who’s reached out and checked in the last week. Sorry I have not replied… it’s been a bit of a trying time and things are looking up. Robin.’

Robin partnered with model Patsy Kensit, EastEnders legend Anita Dobson, Loose Woman Lisa Riley and Dragon’s Den star Deborah Meaden during his stint on Strictly. The Suffolk-born star also performed with This Morning host Alison Hammond in the 2015 Christmas Special.

Robin’s representatives told MailOnline: ‘It is with deep sorrow that we announce the tragic passing of our beautiful Robin.

‘Robin’s dancing started from a very young age and never stopped. He lit up any room he walked into, he was a nurturing soul always full of fun.

‘Strictly Come Dancing, Burn the Floor and many other dance shows along with all the school children around the country who he gave his time.

‘Robin was a strong advocate for mental health and worked closely with the ‘Sane Charity’. The dance world has lost some of its sparkle today. We ask for the family’s privacy at this very difficult time.’

On January 4 (left), Robin had shared a message with his friends and followers which said: ‘Big shout out and love to everyone who’s reached out and checked in the last week. Sorry I have not replied… it’s been a bit of a trying time and things are looking up. Robin.’ On January 21, he hinted at trauma (right)

On January 14, he posted: ‘Remember, when something goes wrong in the circus, they send in the clowns to distract the audience. Well, something has gone very wrong with this circus and the clowns are everywhere.’

Founder of Burn the Floor and friend of Robin, Harley Medcalf, said: ‘We have lost a beautiful friend, Robin Windsor, Bobby, one of the founding members of the Burn the Floor family.

‘Robin has passed away in England. A generous, extremely talented dancer, full of energy, life and love.

‘His stage presence defined the Burn the Floor company. Whenever we visited London, Robin was always the first to call, always there to support, celebrate, laugh and cry together.

‘In the photo attached a highly emotional Robin was just off stage after his last performance with Burn The Floor Reunion Tour in Birmingham in 2022.’

‘Our hearts are broken he will be greatly missed by all his friends, family and fans around the world.’

February 20, 2024
Remembering the Best Strictly Come Dancing Moments of Robin ‘Bobby’ Windsor, who Passed Away at 44 – From Reaching the Semi-Final with Lisa Riley to Dancing with Alison Hammond

Former Strictly Come Dancing star Robin ‘Bobby’ Windsor has died aged 44 – leaving his fans, friends and family heartbroken.

The news of Robin’s passing was announced on Tuesday morning. The 44-year-old dancer’s cause of death has not been revealed.

The beloved professional Latin and Ballroom dancer featured on the BBC show between 2010-2015, partnering with model Patsy Kensit, EastEnders legend Anita Dobson, Loose Woman Lisa Riley and Dragon’s Den star Deborah Meaden.

The Suffolk-born star also performed with This Morning host Alison Hammond in the 2015 Christmas Special.

However in November 2018, Robin announced his retirement from being a professional dancer on BBC spin-off show It Takes Two.

Here MailOnline takes a look back at some of Robin’s best moments on the dance competition.

Former Strictly Come Dancing star Robin ‘Bobby’ Windsor has died aged 44 – leaving his fans, friends and family heartbroken (pictured with Lisa Riley)

The beloved professional Latin and Ballroom dancer featured on the BBC show between 2010-2015 (pictured with Susanna Reid)

Kristina Rihanoff and Robin Windsor during Strictly Come Dancing launch event at the BBC Studios back in 2011

Robin and Lisa Riley reaching the Strictly semi-final

Robin’s best performance on the show came in 2012 (series 10), when he reached the semi-final with Lisa Riley.

The pair always kept viewers smiling with their comical routines, including their iconic dance to car Wash.

Robin was dressed in denim dungarees, while Lisa donned a bright orange costume as she wowed the crowd by ending with the splits

They were often spotted larking around and laughing in rehearsals as they hit it off from the get go.

Robin’s best performance on the show came in 2012 (series 10), when he reached the semi-final with Lisa Riley

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Robin ‘Bobby’ Windsor’s best Strictly Come Dancing moments after his shock death aged 44 – including reaching the semi-final with Lisa Riley and dancing with Alison Hammond

February 20, 2024