Robin Williams, the manic comic genius who morphed from TV's Mork from Ork to Oscar-winning glory, is dead of an apparent suicide. He was 63.
Emergency personnel were called
to Williams's home in Tiburon, California, at 11:55 a.m. local time, per
the Marin County Sheriff's Office.
Williams was found unconscious
and pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are investigating the
death, and an autopsy is forthcoming, but initial evidence points to "a suicide due to asphyxia," according to Marin Sheriff's Lt. Keith Boyle.
In a brief statement, publicist
Mara Buxbaum said Williams had 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."
"This morning, I lost my husband and my best friend," said Williams's wife, Susan Schneider.
"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. 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."
In July, Williams entered rehab for the second time, but not because of a relapse."After working back-to-back projects, Robin is simply taking the opportunity to fine-tune and focus on his continued commitment, of which he remains extremely proud," the actor's publicist said at the time.
Williams reportedly spent a few weeks at Hazelden Addiction Treatment Center in Minnesota.
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