Britain’s Got Talent dancer Kerri-Anne Donaldson takes her own life in Farnborough following police questioning over alleged sexual offence

Tragedy struck the dance world when Kerri-Anne Donaldson, a 38-year-old dancer who reached the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent in 2014 with the troupe Kings and Queens, was found dead at her home in Farnborough, Hampshire, on June 7, 2023.

The inquest at Winchester Coroners Court revealed the devastating circumstances surrounding her death.

Donaldson had been questioned by police on June 4 regarding a ‘sexual’ offence allegation, which she strongly denied.

During a video interview, she reportedly told officers that she would take her own life “if someone finds out” about the allegation.

Following this, she went missing briefly, was found at a hotel in Woking, Surrey, and hospitalized after taking an overdose.

Tragically, she was discovered hanged at her home the next day.

Police Handling and Risk Assessment

Detective Constable Benjamin Harris, leading the investigation, explained that Donaldson’s comments about self-harm were considered seriously but were also evaluated as a possible “form of control” over the complainant.

He told the inquest that, in his experience, such remarks are sometimes made without intent to act on them.

After the interview, Donaldson’s risk of self-harm was assessed as “standard.”

Harris described her demeanor in custody as normal, noting she had prior experience with counseling and “knew how to get help.”

He later acknowledged that, with hindsight, more thorough questioning regarding her statements should have been included in the risk assessment.

Police were limited in their ability to detain someone unless they were deemed an “imminent” danger to themselves.

Career and Colleagues Remember Donaldson

Donaldson’s career highlights included performing on Britain’s Got Talent as part of Kings and Queens, a super-group that included future Strictly Come Dancing professionals Kai Widdrington, Neil Jones, and Katya Jones.

Tributes poured in from colleagues after her death, painting a picture of a talented and warm-hearted performer.

Neil Jones shared on X: “Kerri-Anne Donaldson – remember that name and please never forget it because it belongs to a woman who loved to dance, create and perform.

She had the cheekiest laugh and a heart of gold… Kerri, you were my friend and like my big sister.”

Kevin Clifton also expressed his heartbreak, recalling shared childhood memories and their recent dance rehearsals together.

Post-Mortem Findings

The post-mortem examination determined that Donaldson died by hanging.

It also revealed non-fatal levels of medication in her system, consistent with the earlier overdose attempt, confirming the severe stress and distress she experienced in the days leading up to her death.

Mental Health and Awareness

The case underscores the intense pressure performers face and the importance of accessible mental health support.

Samaritans, the UK’s leading suicide prevention charity, provides support for anyone in distress.

Those struggling can call 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org.

What’s Next?

The inquest is ongoing, aiming to fully understand the circumstances surrounding Donaldson’s death and whether any procedural changes in police handling or mental health support could prevent similar tragedies.

Her case is prompting discussions on how law enforcement evaluates self-harm risks and how support structures for public figures under investigation can be improved.

Summary

Kerri-Anne Donaldson, a former Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist with Kings and Queens, tragically took her own life after being questioned by police over an allegation she denied.

The inquest revealed she had previously threatened self-harm, attempted an overdose, and was found hanged at her home.

Colleagues paid heartfelt tributes, describing her as a talented and caring performer.

Post-mortem findings confirmed death by hanging with non-fatal medication levels present.

The ongoing inquest continues to examine her death and the adequacy of support measures available to her.

Mental health resources like Samaritans remain vital for those in crisis.