I’m still in a state of complete shock from hearing the tragic news of (comedian, actor and all around awesome human being) Robin Williams‘ sudden passing at the age of 63. His lifeless body was discovered in his Tiburon home just north of San Francisco around noon–preliminary reports have his death attributed to self-inflicted asphyxiation (suicide). We all know Robin had numerous struggles while in Hollywood’s spotlight including drug and alcohol addiction mixed with bouts of severe depression. In fact, Robin recently voluntarily checked himself back into rehab to help maintain his sobriety, yet in the end his personal demons finally got the best of him–a truly devastating loss.
Robin Williams passed away this morning. He has been battling severe depression of late. This is a tragic and sudden loss. The family respectfully asks for their privacy as they grieve during this very difficult time. Robin’s publicist Mara Buxbaum
Some of my earliest childhood television memories of Robin revolve around his beloved 1970s series, Mork and Mindy plus I grew up watching his many of his films. Over the years Robin dazzled us all with his super impressive skills as a highly-respected comedian and actor (comedies and dramas–Robin did it all), from Popeye, Good Morning Vietnam and Mrs. Doubtfire (a sequel was in the works, sadly not anymore) to The Fisher King (one of my FAVORITE films of all-time), Jumanji, Awakenings, One Hour Photo and of course his 1998 Oscar-winning role in Good Will Hunting–the films I mentioned are a mere sampling of all the brilliant work he did over the course of roughly four decades.
This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings. I am utterly heartbroken. On behalf of Robin’s family, we are asking for privacy during our time of profound grief. As he is remembered, it is our hope the focus will not be on Robin’s death, but on the countless moments of joy and laughter he gave to millions. Robin’s wife Susan Schneider
Just from all the social media action I’ve seen over the past few hours since the heartbreaking news broke (including a statement from President Obama–posted below), the immense love and respect for Robin is incredible to be witness to, he was a seriously beloved and talented star that will be missed by so many–all the many laughs (and yes, even tears) he induced all over the world can’t even begin to be counted. My genuinely heavy heart goes out to his friends and family, especially his three children, I can’t imagine what they’re going through right now. I would like to thank Mr. Williams for ALL the laughs, he will be missed more than he’ll ever know. Rest in peace Robin–please know you did make the world a better place with all that you accomplished and gave us … we so need laughter in our lives-I think you knew that it’s without even the smallest doubt–the best medicine around.
Robin Williams was an airman, a doctor, a genie, a nanny, a president, a professor, a bangarang Peter Pan, and everything in between. But he was one of a kind. He arrived in our lives as an alien — but he ended up touching every element of the human spirit. He made us laugh. He made us cry. He gave his immeasurable talent freely and generously to those who needed it most — from our troops stationed abroad to the marginalized on our own streets. The Obama family offers our condolences to Robin’s family, his friends, and everyone who found their voice and their verse thanks to Robin Williams. President Barack Obama
No matter what people tell you, words and ideas can change the world. Robin Williams