Robin Williams, the comedian known the world over for starring in everything from Mork & Mindy to Hook to The Birdcage, has died in what authorities are investigating as a possible suicide. He was 63 years old.
Williams, who won an Oscar for his performance in Good Will Hunting, was found at his home in Tiburon, Calif. late Monday morning, and was pronounced dead a few moments later. An initial investigation by the coroner found "the death to be a suicide due to asphyxia, but a comprehensive investigation must be completed before a final determination is made," according to a statement from the Marin County Sheriff's Office.
Befitting an actor whose worked influenced so many who came after him, fellow actors and comedians almost immediately took to Twitter with an outpouring of sentiments mourning Williams' loss.
The actor, an immense improv talent who was capable of comedy and drama in the same breath, "has been battling severe depression of late," his publicist Mara Buxbaum told The Hollywood Reporter, "this is a tragic and sudden loss."
"This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and beautiful human beings," Williams' wife Susan Schneider told the Reporter. "I am utterly heartbroken. … 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."
As the news of Williams' death spread, his fans and fellow actors took to social media to mourn his loss. "Robin Williams was like no other," tweeted Henry Winkler, who worked with the actor on Happy Days, which would later spin-off Mork & Mindy. "To watch him create on the spot was a privilege to behold." Mara Wilson, who played his daughter in Mrs. Doubtfire said, "Very sad, very upset, very glad I did not have to hear about this though Twitter. Probably going to be taking some time off it for a while." Director Edgar Wright recalled: "The only time I met Robin Williams, I got to tell him how much I loved World's Greatest Dad. Do see that one. One of his many great roles."
Those in the comedy world were particularly struck by the loss of one of the greats. Steve Martin tweeted, "I could not be more stunned by the loss of Robin Williams, mensch, great talent, acting partner, genuine soul." Kathy Griffin posted a picture of herself with Williams and the caption "I met this sweet, generous & brilliant man Robin Williams in 1991. Here we are with HIS idol Jonathan Winters. #RIP" Ellen DeGeneres also tweeted that she was "heartbroken."
Williams' nearly 40-year career was wholly unique; he was a talent unlike any who came before him and it will take some time before his loss can be fully measured.
