Overview
- Wentink’s death was publicly confirmed on October 4 by his longtime partner and dance collaborator Ralf Lepehne in a social-media statement.
- Lepehne called him a “true legend of Latin dance” and said he endured a long, private struggle with depression.
- Shirley Ballas posted an Instagram tribute on October 6 describing Wentink as “like family,” as colleagues from Strictly and Dancing with the Stars shared condolences.
- A celebrated competitor and coach, Wentink won British Open and World Latin titles, appeared on Strictly Come Dancing South Africa in 2006, and later judged seasons six through eight.
- Reports have not established the circumstances or location of his death, with only one outlet citing Bangkok without broader corroboration.