While Mandy Dingle may be bracing for emotional storms in Emmerdale, actress Lisa Riley is facing one of her own—off-screen and deeply personal. In a moving tribute shared across social media and at a public event, Lisa honoured the memory of her former Strictly Come Dancing partner, Robin Windsor, who tragically passed away in 2024.
Lisa, who joined Emmerdale as Mandy back in 1995, has always been known for her infectious energy and warmth, traits that made her a fan favourite during her Strictly run in 2012. Paired with Robin Windsor, the duo became a crowd-pleasing powerhouse—full of sparkle, laughter, and heart. Though they narrowly missed a place in the final, their chemistry on the dance floor left a lasting impression on fans—and on each other.
But in February 2024, tragedy struck. Robin was found dead in a London hotel room, sending shockwaves through both the dance and entertainment communities. Since then, Lisa has made it her mission to keep his memory alive—not just as a friend, but as a fierce advocate for mental health and LGBTQ+ rights.
At the British LGBT Awards, Robin was posthumously honoured for his advocacy work. Lisa, joined by Robin’s aunt Alison and sister Hayley, accepted the award in his name. Her speech was raw and heartfelt: “He should be here, covered in sparkles, having a ball… but the energy he had is imprinted on my heart.” Her voice cracked as she acknowledged the silent suffering Robin faced, adding, “Mental health in the gay community is really bad. If I can help in any way… then I’ve done my bit.”
The actress went on to celebrate Robin’s authenticity: “He wasn’t a hidden gay man—he was a proud, proud gay man. His zest for life was magnetic. He would be laughing at us now, shining down.”
Lisa’s tribute didn’t stop there. She later shared a photo of herself and her partner Al in London, standing near a tree dusted in rainbow confetti. The caption read like a poem from the soul: “A day to remember, and keep remembering our nearest and dearest… LOVE YOU ROBIN… keep dancing with the angels.”
Earlier this year, on the anniversary of his passing, Lisa penned another heart-shattering post. “I cry while I write this,” she admitted, “but the quote speaks volumes… I see all the signs you send me. You are loved. You were loved. Always loved. I just wish you had heard it for yourself.”
While her character Mandy faces dramatic twists ahead—especially with Paddy’s father, Bear Wolf, set to return to the Dales—Lisa herself reminds fans that some of the most powerful stories aren’t scripted. They’re lived. They’re grieved. They’re cherished in memory.