Robin Williams Found Dead At Age 63

By
ETONLINE

Celebrated comedian Robin Williams has died at the age of 63.

San Francisco's KRON4 first reported the story, which was confirmed by the Marin County Sheriff's Office and Williams' rep.

In a statement released to Entertainment Tonight, the actor's rep said, "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."

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According to the Marin County Sheriff's office, they had received a 9-1-1 call at approximately 11:55 a.m. on Monday, August 11.

Williams was pronounced dead at 12:02 p.m. The Oscar winner had been battling with severe depression and the Marin County Coroner's office suspects that the death may have been the result of "suicide by asphyxia."

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"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," said Williams' wife Susan Schneider. "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 was among the most acclaimed and celebrated comedians in Hollywood history. He was praised for his effortless ability to excel in comedic and dramatic performances that earned him heaps of praise over his long career.

Williams was nominated for four Oscars. First, in 1988 for his amazing blend of comedy and drama in the war film Good Morning, Vietnam, then again in 1990 for his iconic work in Dead Poet's Society. Two years later, Williams snagged a nomination for his astounding turn as a schizophrenic homeless man in The Fisher King.

Finally, in 1998, the star took home gold for the first time for his powerhouse performance in Good Will Hunting.

Williams' had a gift for off-the-cuff improvised impersonations that would leave audiences rolling on the floor, but he could turn on a dime and take on dramatic and often intensely scary roles – such as his characters in One Hour Photo and Insomnia.

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Williams was born in 1951 in Chicago, Illinois, and was one of only a handful of students to be accepted into the freshman drama class at the prestigious Julliard School.

He first exploded into the public consciousness playing the lovable alien Mork on the hit sitcom Happy Days. The character was so beloved that a spinoff series called Mork and Mindy was created,which became Williams' first major breakthrough role.

Williams was as well-known for his stand-up comedy career as he was for his acting. He had a score of incredibly successful HBO specials that drew in larger and larger audiences. His 2002 one-man show Robin Williams: Live On Broadway – which was released on DVD - set new records for stand-up ratings and sales.

Williams' legacy is vast and his absence will likely be felt for years. He leaves behind several film projects that have yet to be released, including Night at the Museum 3 and a Mrs. Doubtfire sequel that was in development with 20th Century Fox. The studio's television counterpart had produced Williams' short-lived CBS comedy, The Crazy Ones.

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Twentieth Century Fox Television said in a statement, "Robin Williams was a comedy giant, and although we only knew him personally for a season, he was warm, funny and a true professional. His cast and crew both loved him and loved working with him, and our hearts go out to his family and friends. He was one of a kind."

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