Comedian and Oscar-winning actor Robin Williams died Monday at the age of 63, according to the Marin County Sheriff’s Office Coroner Division. The release stated his death is due to a suspected suicide.
“At this time, the Sheriff’s Office Coroner Division suspects the death to be a suicide due to asphyxia, but a comprehensive investigation must be completed before a final determination is made,” read the statement. “A forensic examination is currently scheduled for August 12, 2014 with subsequent toxicology testing to be conducted.”
Williams’ publicist Mara Buxbaum released this statement: “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.”
In addition, his wife Susan Schneider added, “This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend, while the world lost one of its most beloved artists and 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.”
Williams has been open in the past about his struggles with addiction to drinking and cocaine in the early 1980s and got treatment for alcohol abuse in 2006. A little more than one month ago, The Hollywood Reporter stated the actor voluntarily entered into a renewal facility that is affiliated with the 12-step program to continue focusing on his sobriety. The article added his representative said the visit was not in response to any current issue with drinking or drugs.
As the news broke, celebrities and fans alike took to Twitter to mourn the loss of the beloved actor. Almost instantly, the social network’s trends list was filled with phrases connected to Williams, from movie titles and “RIP Robin Williams” to “Oh Captain,” in reference to one of his most notable performances as John Keating in Dead Poets Society.
Sarah Michelle Gellar, his co-star from his last TV series The Crazy Ones, which was canceled after one season, tweeted a collage of photos of her with Williams while Anna Kendrick tweeted lines from the “O Captain! My Captain!” poem by Walt Whitman.
Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts tweeted, “At a time like this it’s hard to find the words ... thank you Robin Williams for the laughter and so much more. Prayers for his family. #RIP.”
He is survived by his wife and their three children.
A personal tribute to Williams and his career will be posted shortly on our blog.
