Really sad news to report today and there’s no easy way to say it: Robin Williams has passed away at the age of 63 from an apparent suicide. The actor was found unresponsive in his California home and 911 was called. When paramedics arrived, he was pronounced dead on the scene. At the moment, it seems asphyxia was the cause of death. How awful.
The Marin County Sheriff’s Office plans to investigate further and will perform an autopsy as well as toxicology tests starting today.
From The Hollywood Reporter:
Williams’ publicist Mara Buxbaum told The Hollywood Reporter that Williams “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.”
His wife, Susan Schneider, said: “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.”
Added David Steinberg, his manager of 35 years: “Nobody made the world laugh like Robin Williams. My brother, my friend, my soulmate, I will miss you.”
In addition to a wife, Robin also left behind a daughter, Zelda, who posted this message to Twitter:
— Zelda Williams (@zeldawilliams) August 12, 2014
So, so, so upset about this. Just gutted.
It’s shocking. I wonder if he was on SSRI’s after his stay in the hospital for his bi-polar disorder. It’s tragic that he would leave us so suddenly during a depressive phase. I wish he was still here.
ssri’s do nothing for you when you’re bi-polar.
you’d need lithium.
it’s so sad that he couldn’t see another way out.
weird how many depressed people are able to bring joy and laughter to others.
Please Ms. Jennifer, correct the piece to peace.
Mr. Williams touched so many (evidenced by all the people crying for him) and yet felt so alone. I believe that is a tragedy. Depression, drug addiction, bi polar–it mattes NOW what drove this man to suicide (if this is indeed what the official word will be)–but let his legacy be that others will not suffer the same sad end.
Goodbye Mr. Williams, you have my deepest respect for all your USO work. You did so much for so many of our troops (not many will) and for that you will be remembered as a GREAT man. RIP and God bless your family.
OMGosh, I ask Ms. Jennifer to correct her typo and then there are mine.
It matters not NOW–is what I should have typed.
he was one of a kind!!