‘Don’t know how I’ll do life’- Strictly star heartbroken in tragic d3ath announcement
Strictly Come Dancing choreographer Ashleigh Hunter has shared the heartbreaking news that her father, Ian Hunter, has died following a battle with cancer.
The 46-year-old professional dancer, who spent several years working behind the scenes on the BBC ballroom show, announced the loss in an emotional Instagram message on Monday.
Ashleigh admitted she could barely imagine life without the man she described as her biggest supporter and greatest cheerleader.
Sharing a photograph of herself alongside her dad, she wrote: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that I share the passing of my beautiful Dad, Ian Hunter.”
She described Ian as an “incredible Dad and Pop”, a devoted husband and a much-loved friend to many.
Ashleigh said her father had died peacefully surrounded by love after what she called an “incredibly brave battle with cancer”.
‘I Don’t Know How I’ll Do Life Without You’
In the deeply personal tribute, Ashleigh reflected on the enormous role her father had played throughout her life.
“Dad, you were my biggest supporter and my greatest cheerleader throughout my entire life,” she wrote.
She then admitted the scale of the loss was difficult to comprehend.
“I honestly don’t know how I’ll do life without you, but I am so grateful for every moment, every laugh and every beautiful memory we shared.”
Ashleigh ended the tribute by promising that her love for her father would never disappear.
“I will love and miss you every single day,” she wrote, before adding: “Forever my Dad, forever in my heart.”
The emotional announcement quickly prompted an outpouring of support from friends and colleagues connected to Strictly Come Dancing.
Strictly Stars Rally Around Ashleigh
Johannes Radebe was among the first familiar faces to send his condolences, writing: “Ash. Darling sending my love.”
Former Strictly professional Gorka Márquez also reached out, telling her: “Sending you all the love ash!”
Kai Widdrington sent his love to Ashleigh and her family, while Oti Mabuse offered a brief but heartfelt message of support.
Kevin Clifton also commented, telling Ashleigh he was deeply sorry for her loss.
Amy Dowden wrote that she was sending Ashleigh “so much love”, while Dianne Buswell said her heart was breaking for her.
Karen Hauer shared one of the most personal tributes to Ian, describing him as “the kindest, funniest man ever” and saying she had loved him dearly.
Actress Kym Marsh also sent her condolences, telling Ashleigh she was sorry for her loss and sending love to the family.
The messages reflected just how closely Ashleigh has remained connected to the Strictly family despite working mainly behind the scenes rather than as one of the programme’s competing professionals.
Ashleigh’s Long Connection With Strictly
Ashleigh is an experienced professional dancer and choreographer whose career has included both British and international television.
She worked on Strictly Come Dancing as a choreographer and choreographer assistant between 2018 and 2023, helping to shape performances away from the spotlight.
She is also known for her success on Dancing with the Stars Australia, where she became a champion.
Her work on Strictly brought her into close contact with many of the dancers and performers who responded to her devastating announcement.
But Ashleigh’s message focused entirely on the personal loss behind the public tribute.
Rather than reflecting on her career, she remembered a father who had supported her throughout every stage of her life and celebrated her achievements from the sidelines.
Her words made clear just how difficult the days ahead will be as she adjusts to life without him.
For Ashleigh, the memories of the laughter, love and moments they shared now remain at the centre of her grief.
And judging by the flood of messages from those who knew Ian, his warmth and humour left a lasting impression far beyond his immediate family.
