Police have reported that Robin Williams was found dead in his Tiburon home this morning. He was 63.
The cause of death appears to be suicide, police say. Williams’ publicist released a statement shortly afterward saying that the actor had been battling severe depression.
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.
Williams rose to fame with the Happy Days spin-off Mork & Mindy. It’s been said that he was so witty on that show that the writers would frequently leave blank moments on the page so he could have the proper room to ad-lib. That was where audiences first were exposed to his hilarity, and we were able to enjoy it all the way through his most recent roles.
But he wasn’t only a funny man, as he won an Oscar for playing the role of Dr. Sean Maguire in Good Will Hunting in 1997. His performance as Maguire is a truly powerful one, and it helped carry that movie to the esteemed status it holds today. Williams also received nominations for The Fisher King (1991), Dead Poets Society (1989) and Good Morning, Vietnam (1987).
From Flubber to Jumanji, and Aladdin to Mrs. Doubtfire, the impact that Williams’ characters have had on the lives of many, especially those who grew up watching his children’s movies, can’t be overstated. He made us laugh with his comedy. He inspired us in Dead Poets Society. He reminded us what it means to live after loss in Good Will Hunting, and he brought us boundless joy. The film community has lost one of its finest members, and Williams’ impact will be felt long, long after today.
As one of the most respected actors of our time, and one of the most beloved, Robin Williams will truly be missed.
