Oscar-winning actor and beloved comedian Robin Williams died of a suspected suicide at his home in northern California last night at just 63 years of age. A forensic examination is scheduled for later to finally determine the cause of death.
Robin’s wife, Susan Schneider, led the tributes last night – “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.”
President Obama made a statement last night: “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.”
Robin left behind four finished films that will hit our cinemas over the next year. He reprised his role as Teddy Roosevelt in Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb and stars in the Christmas comedy Merry Friggn’ Christmas, due out this November. He had also appeared in the drama Boulevard and provided the voice of Dennis the Dog in Absolutely Anything, due out next year.
The whole of Hollywood, and it seems most of the world, is in mourning for this legendary actor and comedian who brought us so much laughter. It’s a very strange feeling when someone that you don’t know personally dies and yet you feel incredibly sad and touched. Tributes continue to pour in on Twitter and Social Media sites:
Comedian Eddie Izzard said: “Robin Williams has died and I am very sad. From every comedian here at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, we salute him & we say goodbye.”
Ellen DeGeneres: “I can’t believe the news about Robin Williams. He gave so much to so many people. I’m heartbroken.”
Jonathan Ross: “Robin Williams is gone. I loved him. Incredibly talented performer. Wonderfully sweet and generous person. Heartbreaking news. So sad.”
Kevin Spacey: “Robin Williams made the world laugh & think. I will remember & honor that. A great man, artist and friend. I will miss him beyond measure.”
#RIPRobinWilliams. You gave us so much! Thank you for all the laughter you brought us. We salute you Robin and say goodbye.
